Design Consultant

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Consultant

Company: ShelfGenie of Raleigh - Greensboro

Location: PINEHURST, NC, United States

Job Type: Part-Time

Category: Sales Operations / GTM - Design & Consulting

Date Posted: May 26, 2026

Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on the client-facing aspect of sales and design, acting as a crucial touchpoint within the Go-To-Market (GTM) strategy.

• It involves direct client engagement through in-home consultations, requiring strong interpersonal and problem-solving skills to understand and fulfill customer needs with custom solutions.

• The position leverages specific sales and design tools, including CRM and 3D design software, to facilitate the sales cycle and enhance client experience.

• Success in this role contributes directly to revenue generation and customer satisfaction, aligning with core GTM objectives for market penetration and client retention.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Design Consultant," the core responsibilities and tools (CRM, sales focus) place this role firmly within a GTM Sales Operations context, emphasizing client engagement and solution selling rather than pure design work. The "part-time" nature and emphasis on flexibility suggest a role that supports broader sales efforts by engaging with leads and closing deals.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive in-home consultations to assess client needs and present tailored ShelfGenie custom storage solutions.

• Educate prospective clients on ShelfGenie product features, benefits, and unique selling propositions, effectively demonstrating product samples.

• Drive sales by articulating the value and customization options of ShelfGenie products, guiding clients toward their optimal solution.

• Manage client follow-up processes to nurture relationships and ensure a consistently positive customer experience, fostering long-term loyalty.

• Utilize provided sales tools, including 3D design software and a CRM system, to manage client interactions, track progress, and design proposals efficiently.

• Collaborate with internal teams (as applicable) to ensure seamless project execution post-sale, maintaining client satisfaction throughout the entire customer journey.

• Proactively identify opportunities for upselling or cross-selling based on client needs and product offerings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description emphasizes "selling the custom design" and "driving sales" through consultations, indicating a direct revenue-generating responsibility. The mention of CRM and sales tools further solidifies its ties to sales operations and GTM execution.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent required. A background or interest in interior design, home improvement, or related fields is beneficial but not strictly required.

Experience: 0-2 years of experience in client-facing roles, sales, customer service, or a related field. Experience with in-home consultations or design-based sales is a plus.

Required Skills:

• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills for effective client engagement and relationship building.

• Strong problem-solving abilities to identify client needs and propose suitable custom solutions.

• Proficiency in modern communication and computing technology, including computer and smartphone usage with internet access.

• Ability to learn quickly, adapt to new environments, and apply learned knowledge to product and process innovation.

• Reliable transportation and a clean driving record for in-home client visits.

Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with 3D design software or visualization tools.

• Experience using CRM systems for lead management and client tracking.

• Interest in interior design, home organization, or remodeling.

• Previous experience in sales, especially in a consulting or consultative sales capacity.

• Proven track record of meeting or exceeding sales targets.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2 years" experience level and emphasis on training suggest an entry-level role. However, the need for strong interpersonal skills, problem-solving, and comfort with technology indicates a focus on core competencies required for successful GTM execution in a client-facing capacity.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio of past design projects is not explicitly required due to the entry-level nature, candidates are encouraged to highlight any experience demonstrating client interaction, problem-solving, or basic design/visualization skills.

• Examples of creating custom solutions or managing client relationships from previous roles (even non-design roles) can be presented to showcase relevant capabilities.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of consultative sales processes and client management workflows.

• The ability to articulate how they would document client interactions, needs, and proposed solutions using provided CRM tools is essential.

• Familiarity with or ability to quickly learn process optimization for client consultations and sales cycles will be assessed.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the entry-level nature and focus on training, the "portfolio" expectation is less about a formal design portfolio and more about demonstrating transferable skills in client interaction, problem-solving, and sales aptitude through past experiences and how they would apply learnings from the provided training.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: This position offers a commission-based compensation structure of 10-24% of sales value, with monthly bonus opportunities. For the Pinehurst, NC area, for an entry-level part-time role with commission potential, a projected annual income could range from $30,000 - $60,000+ depending on sales volume and performance.

Benefits:

• Perfect part-time job with significant flexibility.

• Ability to create your own schedule, offering substantial autonomy.

• Comprehensive training and certification through an online university.

• Dedicated one-on-one coaching and continuous ongoing support.

• Access to essential selling tools, including advanced 3D design software and a CRM system.

• A supportive team environment with readily available assistance.

• Monthly bonus opportunities in addition to commission earnings.

Working Hours: This is a part-time role with high flexibility, allowing the individual to create their own schedule. While the core work involves client consultations, the exact hours will vary based on appointment availability and personal scheduling. An estimated 40 hours per week is mentioned, but this is likely an approximation for full-time equivalent effort if one were to maximize earnings, with the understanding that part-time flexibility is a key offering.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary is commission-based. The provided range (10-24%) is a commission percentage. To provide a realistic estimate for an entry-level, part-time role in Pinehurst, NC, research on similar sales roles in the area was conducted, factoring in potential commission earnings and bonus opportunities. The stated "40 hours" for working hours is noted as potentially an approximation for full-time equivalent effort, given the explicit mention of part-time and flexibility.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Home Improvement & Renovation / Custom Storage Solutions. ShelfGenie operates within the home services sector, focusing on upgrading residential spaces through custom organizational solutions. This industry often values customer satisfaction, quality craftsmanship, and personalized service.

Company Size: ShelfGenie operates as a franchise network with multiple locations across North America. ShelfGenie of Raleigh - Greensboro would be a specific business unit within this larger brand, likely employing a moderate-sized local team focused on sales, design, and installation coordination. This size offers a balance of established brand support with a more agile, local team dynamic.

Founded: ShelfGenie was founded in 2007. This indicates a company with over a decade of experience and established processes in the custom shelving and organization market.

Team Structure:

• The local team likely includes sales consultants (like this role), designers, project managers/coordinators, and installation teams.

• This role reports to a Sales Manager or Owner, focusing on lead conversion and client consultation.

Methodology:

• Client Consultation: In-home visits to understand client needs and propose custom solutions.

• Solution Selling: Educating clients on product benefits and closing sales through consultative approaches.

• Design & Visualization: Utilizing 3D software to present customized designs to clients.

• Process Management: Employing CRM systems to track leads, manage client interactions, and monitor sales pipeline.

Company Website: https://www.shelfgenie.com/ (General brand website; local specifics may vary)

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is likely a blend of a national brand standard with local entrepreneurial spirit, given the franchise model. Expect a focus on results, customer satisfaction, and teamwork within the local branch.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position is at an entry-level (0-2 years) within the GTM/Sales framework. It serves as a foundational role for individuals looking to build a career in sales, client consulting, or potentially operations management within the home improvement or direct sales sectors. The focus is on developing core sales and client relationship skills.

Reporting Structure: The Design Consultant will report directly to a Sales Manager or the local franchise owner. This direct reporting line provides opportunities for close mentorship and immediate feedback.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct and significant impact on revenue generation for ShelfGenie of Raleigh - Greensboro. Successful consultations and sales directly contribute to the company's top-line growth and market share. Furthermore, positive client experiences contribute to brand reputation and potential for repeat business or referrals.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Design Consultant/Sales Specialist: Progress to handling more complex projects, larger clients, or specializing in specific product lines.

• Sales Management: With proven sales success and leadership potential, advance into roles like Sales Manager, overseeing a team of consultants.

• Operations Specialization: Transition into roles within sales operations, client management, or project coordination within the organization, leveraging insights gained from client-facing work.

• Franchise Ownership: Long-term potential for individuals with strong business acumen and sales success to explore opportunities within the ShelfGenie franchise model.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth paths are clearly defined within sales and potentially into sales operations or management, leveraging the foundational client and sales experience gained. The structured training and support suggest a commitment to developing talent from within.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This role is primarily an "on-site" position, with the "on-site" location being the client's home for in-home consultations. There may be a local ShelfGenie office or showroom for training, team meetings, or administrative tasks, but the core work is mobile.

Office Location(s): The primary service area for this role is Pinehurst, NC, and surrounding regions within the Raleigh-Greensboro territory. Candidates should be comfortable traveling within this designated geographical area.

Workspace Context:

• Mobile Office: The primary workspace is the client's home, requiring professionalism, adaptability, and the ability to present effectively in a residential setting.

• Tools & Technology: Access to a reliable computer, smartphone with internet, and potentially a dedicated workspace at home for administrative tasks and design work.

• Collaborative Environment: While consultations are individual, the role is part of a local team that offers support, shares best practices, and may have periodic in-person or virtual team meetings.

Work Schedule: High flexibility is a key offering, allowing consultants to create their own schedules. This typically involves booking appointments during standard business hours and potentially some evenings or weekends to accommodate client availability. While part-time, maximizing earning potential may involve scheduling a significant number of consultations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "on-site" designation primarily refers to client-site visits, emphasizing the mobile nature of the role within a defined geographical territory.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Typically an automated or recruiter-led chat through the Paradox platform, or a brief phone call to assess basic qualifications and interest.

• In-Home Consultation Simulation/Role Play: Candidates may be asked to conduct a mock in-home consultation, demonstrating their sales approach, communication skills, and ability to present solutions.

• Skills Assessment: Evaluation of interpersonal communication, problem-solving abilities, and comfort with technology.

• Manager/Owner Interview: A more in-depth discussion about motivation, career aspirations, understanding of sales processes, and cultural fit with the team.

• Final Offer: Based on successful completion of all stages.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Transferable Skills: Since a formal design portfolio isn't required, focus on concrete examples from previous roles (even non-sales roles) that showcase:

  • Excellent customer service and relationship building.
  • Problem-solving scenarios and how you arrived at a solution.
  • Any experience with design, visualization, or presenting ideas.
  • Examples of self-motivation and ability to work independently.

• Prepare for Role-Play: Practice articulating the benefits of a generic product or service, focusing on listening to needs and presenting a tailored solution.

• Demonstrate Tech Savvy: Be ready to discuss your comfort level with computers, smartphones, and learning new software.

Challenge Preparation:

• Consultative Selling: Be prepared to discuss how you would approach a consultation, what questions you would ask, and how you would tailor your presentation.

• Client Relationship Management: Think about how you would follow up with a client after a consultation and maintain a positive ongoing relationship.

• Understanding Commission: Be ready to discuss your understanding of commission-based sales and your motivation to succeed in such an environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process emphasizes practical application of skills, particularly in client interaction and sales simulation, aligning with the hands-on nature of the role.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 3D Design Software: Specific software provided by ShelfGenie for creating custom design visualizations for clients. Proficiency will be trained.

• CRM System: A Customer Relationship Management system (likely proprietary or a standard platform like Salesforce, HubSpot, etc. – specific training provided) for managing leads, tracking client interactions, scheduling appointments, and monitoring sales pipeline.

• Mobile Communication: Candidates must possess their own smartphone with internet access and email capabilities for communication and accessing tools.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary analytics role, consultants will use CRM reporting features to track their personal sales performance, conversion rates, and pipeline status.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM System: Central to managing the sales process from lead to close. Automation features within the CRM may be used for follow-up reminders or client communication templates.

• Scheduling Tools: Potentially integrated with the CRM or used independently for managing appointment calendars.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on specific tools like 3D design software and a CRM system indicates that proficiency, or at least a strong aptitude for learning them, is crucial. These are core operational tools for GTM execution in this role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Client-Centricity: Prioritizing the client's needs and ensuring a positive, transformative experience with ShelfGenie solutions.

• Integrity & Honesty: Building trust with clients through transparent communication about products, pricing, and solutions.

• Teamwork & Support: Fostering a collaborative environment where team members assist each other to achieve collective success.

• Continuous Improvement: Embracing training, seeking feedback, and adapting to new methods and products to enhance performance.

• Drive & Ambition: A motivated attitude towards achieving sales targets and personal growth within the commission-based structure.

Collaboration Style:

• Supportive & Mentorship-Oriented: The company emphasizes providing one-on-one coaching and ongoing support, suggesting a culture where experienced individuals help newer team members succeed.

• Results-Driven: While supportive, the commission structure inherently drives a focus on performance and achieving sales goals.

• Cross-functional Interaction: Collaboration with installation teams and potentially administrative staff to ensure client satisfaction post-sale.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture appears to balance strong support and training with a results-oriented approach driven by the commission structure, creating a dynamic environment for ambitious individuals.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Commission-Based Income: The primary challenge is managing income variability inherent in a commission-only structure, requiring consistent sales performance.

• Client Rejection/No-Sales: Dealing with the natural ebb and flow of sales, including consultations that do not result in a sale.

• Time Management & Scheduling: Balancing personal availability with client scheduling needs across a potentially broad geographic area.

• Learning Curve: Quickly mastering product knowledge, design software, and sales techniques provided during training.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Comprehensive Sales Training: Structured online university and one-on-one coaching provide a robust foundation in sales techniques, product knowledge, and design principles.

• 3D Design Software Proficiency: Gaining practical skills in specialized design software.

• CRM System Mastery: Developing expertise in using CRM tools for effective sales pipeline management.

• Client Relationship Building: Honing skills in customer service, consultation, and long-term client engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for entry-level sales roles, particularly those with a commission structure. The provided training and support are designed to mitigate these challenges and foster growth.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to a first-time in-home client consultation. What are the key steps you would take?" (Focus on active listening, needs assessment, and solution presentation).

• "How do you handle objections or a client who is hesitant about a purchase?" (Prepare to discuss empathy, addressing concerns, and reinforcing value).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in a part-time, flexible role with a commission-based compensation structure?" (Highlight motivation, self-discipline, and desire for autonomy).

• "What do you know about ShelfGenie and our products/services?" (Research the company website to show genuine interest).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Showcase Relevant Experiences: Instead of a formal portfolio, prepare 2-3 brief anecdotes from past jobs or even personal projects that demonstrate:

  • How you solved a problem for someone.
  • A time you went above and beyond for a customer/client.
  • How you learned a new skill or system quickly.

• Discuss Your Learning Aptitude: Be ready to talk about how you learn new software or processes, emphasizing your adaptability and eagerness to train.

• Articulate Your Sales Motivation: Clearly explain why you are driven to succeed in a sales role, especially one with commission incentives.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating core GTM competencies: client engagement, consultative selling, problem-solving, and adaptability, rather than deep technical design skills.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Paradox platform.

• Customize Your Resume: Highlight any customer-facing experience, sales interactions, problem-solving scenarios, and comfort with technology. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Prepare for the Chatbot/Initial Screen: Be ready to answer straightforward questions about your availability, motivation, and basic qualifications.

• Practice Your Consultation Simulation: Rehearse how you would conduct an in-home consultation, focusing on active listening, needs identification, and presenting solutions clearly and enthusiastically.

• Research ShelfGenie: Familiarize yourself with their products, services, and the benefits they offer to customers.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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