Design Consultant

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Consultant

Company: ShelfGenie of Raleigh - Greensboro

Location: Raleigh, North Carolina, United States

Job Type: Part-Time

Category: Sales / Design Consulting

Date Posted: May 26, 2026

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on consultative selling and custom design solutions within clients' homes.

• It requires strong client relationship management and the ability to educate customers on product offerings.

• The position involves utilizing specialized tools like 3D design software and a CRM system.

• A key aspect is managing the entire client experience from initial consultation through to post-sale follow-up.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Design Consultant," the core responsibilities and required skills heavily lean into a sales and customer experience function, specifically within a home improvement or interior design context. The "part-time" nature and flexible schedule suggest this is ideal for individuals seeking supplementary income or a flexible career path, rather than a traditional full-time operations role. The provided description and AI-derived skills indicate a strong emphasis on direct client interaction and sales.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct in-home consultations to understand client needs and design custom storage solutions.

• Educate clients on ShelfGenie products, highlighting unique features, benefits, and customization options.

• Utilize 3D design software to create visual representations of proposed solutions for clients.

• Demonstrate product samples and effectively sell the custom design to meet client requirements.

• Manage client follow-up processes to ensure a fantastic customer experience and build strong, lasting relationships.

• Maintain accurate client records and sales activities within the provided CRM system.

• Collaborate with internal support teams to ensure seamless project execution and client satisfaction.

• Continuously learn and adapt to new product offerings, design techniques, and sales methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities are framed around direct client engagement and sales, rather than the typical back-end process optimization or system management expected in traditional Revenue or Sales Operations roles. The emphasis is on client education, needs assessment, and closing sales through tailored design solutions.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent required. Interest in design and helping people is essential.

Experience: 0-2 years of experience in a client-facing role, sales, interior design, or a related field is preferred.

Required Skills:

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

• Access to a functional computer, cell phone, and reliable internet service.

• Strong reading, writing, and arithmetic skills.

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills for client engagement.

• Familiarity and comfort with modern communication and computing technology.

• Ability to learn quickly and adapt to new environments, products, and processes.

• A genuine interest in design and a passion for assisting clients.

• Customer service orientation with a focus on delivering exceptional experiences.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with 3D design software or visualization tools.

• Familiarity with CRM systems for client and sales management.

• Background in interior design, professional organizing, or remodeling.

• Consultative selling techniques.

• Time management skills to efficiently handle multiple client consultations.

• A proven track record in sales or client relationship management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications align with a sales consultant role. While CRM and 3D design software are mentioned as tools, proficiency is not explicitly stated as a strict requirement but rather as a preferred skill or part of the training provided. The emphasis is on soft skills like communication, problem-solving, and a client-centric attitude.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal "process portfolio" is not explicitly required, candidates are encouraged to showcase examples of their design sensibility and client interaction skills.

• Prepare to discuss past experiences where you effectively solved client problems or improved customer satisfaction.

• Be ready to articulate how you would approach a client consultation and present a design solution.

Process Documentation:

• The company provides comprehensive training, including the use of their 3D design software and CRM system.

• Candidates will be trained on ShelfGenie's specific consultation, design, and sales processes.

• Emphasis will be placed on documenting client interactions and sales outcomes within the CRM.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section is tailored to reflect that the role is entry-level and heavily supported by company training. The "portfolio" is less about technical process documentation and more about demonstrating client-facing skills and design aptitude. The focus is on learning and applying the company's established processes.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Commission-based compensation of 10-24% of sales value, with potential for monthly bonus opportunities.

Benefits:

• Full training and certification through ShelfGenie University.

• One-on-one coaching and ongoing professional support.

• Access to sales tools including 3D design software and a CRM system.

• Provision of a demo kit for product demonstrations.

• Flexible scheduling, allowing for the creation of a personalized work schedule.

• Opportunity to be part of a supportive and growing team.

Working Hours: This is a part-time position, with flexibility to create your own schedule. The AI estimate of 40 hours is likely an average for a full-time equivalent, but the role is explicitly advertised as part-time.

📝 Enhancement Note: The compensation structure is commission-based, which is typical for sales roles. The "10-24%" range provides a clear target for potential earnings based on sales performance. The benefits highlight training, support, and flexibility, which are attractive for individuals seeking a part-time or flexible role. The "working hours" are flexible, aligning with the "create your own schedule" benefit.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Home Improvement / Interior Design / Custom Storage Solutions. ShelfGenie operates within the home remodeling and organization sector, focusing on custom shelving and storage systems for kitchens, pantries, and closets.

Company Size: ShelfGenie is a North American brand with a network of franchises. While the specific size of the Raleigh-Greensboro branch isn't detailed, it operates as part of a larger, established company, suggesting a blend of local team support and corporate resources.

Founded: ShelfGenie was founded in 2007, indicating a mature company with established processes and a recognized market presence.

Team Structure:

• The role is part of a local franchise team in the Raleigh-Greensboro area.

• Candidates will receive support from a local team and potentially regional management.

• Collaboration is expected with other design consultants, installation teams, and management.

Methodology:

• The company's methodology centers on in-home consultations, personalized design using 3D software, and consultative selling.

• A strong emphasis is placed on customer experience, building relationships, and providing tailored solutions.

• Training is delivered through an online "University" and supplemented with one-on-one coaching.

Company Website: shelfgenie.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture appears to be supportive and client-focused, with an emphasis on providing tools and training to enable success. The franchise model means that while there's local autonomy, there's also a backing of a larger brand's resources and operational standards.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is an entry-level position within the sales and design consulting field. It is designed for individuals looking to gain experience in client consultation, sales, and custom design.

Reporting Structure: Design Consultants typically report to a Sales Manager or Franchise Owner within the local ShelfGenie branch.

Operations Impact: While not a traditional "operations" role, this position directly impacts the company's revenue through sales and customer acquisition. Positive client experiences also contribute to brand reputation and potential referrals, indirectly supporting operational efficiency by reducing customer acquisition costs.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunity to develop strong skills in consultative selling, client relationship management, interior design principles, and proficiency with 3D design software.

• Sales Advancement: Potential to advance to senior design consultant roles, or roles with higher commission tiers based on performance.

• Leadership: For high performers, potential opportunities to move into sales management roles within the franchise network.

• Specialization: Opportunity to become an expert in specific design niches or product lines.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth in this role is primarily tied to sales performance and client satisfaction. Advancement is likely to involve taking on more complex design projects, mentoring new consultants, or moving into management. The provided "0-2 years" experience level indicates this is an initial stepping stone for a career in sales or design.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Primarily an on-site role involving in-home client consultations. There will be a need to visit a local office or potentially a showroom for training, support, and use of demo kits.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is the client's home within the Raleigh-Greensboro service area. The specific office location for training and support is not detailed but would be local to Raleigh or Greensboro.

Workspace Context:

• The primary workspace is the client's residence, requiring professionalism and adaptability.

• Access to a computer and internet is essential for design work, client communication, and CRM usage.

• The company provides a demo kit, which will likely be transported by the consultant.

• Opportunities for team interaction will occur during training sessions, team meetings, or informal check-ins.

Work Schedule: Highly flexible part-time schedule, allowing the consultant to set their own hours. This flexibility is a key selling point, suitable for individuals balancing other commitments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is highly mobile and client-centric. The consultant is expected to operate independently in client homes, leveraging provided tools and training. Flexibility is the defining characteristic of the work schedule.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Review: Screening of resumes and applications based on required qualifications and demonstrated interest in design/sales.

• Phone/Video Screening: An initial conversation to assess communication skills, enthusiasm, and basic fit for the role.

• In-Home Consultation Simulation: Candidates may be asked to simulate an in-home consultation, demonstrating their ability to engage with a "client," understand needs, and present solutions. This is a crucial step for this role.

• CRM/Design Tool Demonstration (Optional): Depending on the candidate's background, they might be asked to discuss their familiarity or aptitude with design software or CRM systems.

• Final Interview: With the hiring manager or franchise owner to discuss compensation, benefits, and finalize the offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Since a formal portfolio of "processes" isn't the focus, prepare to discuss:
  • Examples of projects where you've demonstrated strong design thinking or problem-solving.
  • Scenarios where you successfully managed client relationships and exceeded expectations.
  • Your approach to understanding a client's needs and translating them into solutions.
  • Any experience with visualization tools or even conceptual design sketches.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for questions about how you would handle common client objections or challenging design requests.

• Practice articulating the benefits of custom solutions over off-the-shelf products.

• Think about how you would manage your schedule and client follow-ups efficiently.

• Research ShelfGenie's product offerings and design aesthetic to show genuine interest.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is heavily geared towards assessing client-facing skills and sales aptitude. A simulated consultation is likely to be a key component, so candidates should prepare for role-playing scenarios.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 3D Design Software: Used for creating custom visualizations of client projects. Candidates will receive training if they don't have prior experience.

• CRM System: For managing client information, sales activities, leads, and follow-ups. Proficiency or ability to learn quickly is essential.

• Reliable Computer & Cell Phone: Personal devices with internet access are required for daily operations.

Analytics & Reporting:

• The CRM system will likely provide basic reporting on sales performance, conversion rates, and client activity.

CRM & Automation:

• The primary CRM is central to managing the sales pipeline and customer interactions.

• Automation within the CRM may assist with follow-up reminders or client communication templates.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is focused on sales enablement and client management. The emphasis is on using these tools to facilitate sales and customer service, rather than for complex data analysis or system administration.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Client-Centricity: A primary focus on understanding and exceeding client expectations by providing tailored solutions and excellent service.

• Integrity & Trust: Building strong, lasting relationships with clients through honest communication and reliable service.

• Collaboration & Support: Working together as a team to help clients and support each other's success.

• Innovation & Adaptability: Embracing new design ideas, products, and methods to continuously improve offerings.

• Efficiency & Effectiveness: Optimizing the consultation and sales process to deliver value to both the client and the company.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: While direct "operations" collaboration might be limited, consultants will interface with installation teams and management to ensure project success.

• Feedback Exchange: Openness to receiving feedback from clients and internal teams to refine design and sales approaches.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraged to share successful strategies and client interaction tips with fellow consultants.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture emphasizes a strong customer focus, teamwork, and a proactive approach to problem-solving and design. The values are geared towards building trust and delivering value to the end customer.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Client Objections: Effectively addressing client concerns about cost, design, or implementation timelines.

• Competitive Market: Differentiating ShelfGenie's custom solutions from broader home improvement offerings.

• Scheduling & Logistics: Managing a flexible schedule that accommodates client availability and personal commitments efficiently.

• Sales Performance Pressure: Meeting sales targets to achieve desired income levels, especially with a commission-based structure.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Sales Training: Comprehensive training on consultative selling techniques and overcoming sales objections.

• Design Skills: Development of spatial reasoning, aesthetic judgment, and proficiency in 3D design software.

• Product Knowledge: Deep understanding of ShelfGenie's product lines, materials, and customization options.

• Client Management: Enhancing skills in building rapport, active listening, negotiation, and post-sale follow-up.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to a sales role, particularly one involving in-home consultations and commission-based pay. The growth opportunities are focused on enhancing sales and design capabilities.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to persuade a client to consider a solution they initially weren't keen on. How did you approach it?" (Assesses persuasive skills and client management.)

• "How would you handle a situation where a client is unhappy with a proposed design or the price?" (Tests problem-solving and objection handling.)

• "Walk me through how you would conduct an initial in-home consultation for a client looking to organize their pantry." (Evaluates consultative selling process and product understanding.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about ShelfGenie specifically, and why this role?" (Assesses research and genuine interest.)

• "How do you typically manage your schedule when you have multiple commitments or tasks?" (Evaluates time management and organizational skills.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Since a formal portfolio is unlikely, prepare to discuss your resume and past experiences using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

• Focus on quantifiable achievements whenever possible (e.g., "Increased customer satisfaction scores by X%," "Successfully closed Y% of consultations").

• Be ready to articulate your passion for design and helping people improve their living spaces.

• If you have visual examples of design work (even personal projects), be prepared to share them.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating sales acumen, client engagement skills, problem-solving abilities, and a genuine passion for design and customer satisfaction. Role-playing scenarios are highly probable.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Consultant position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on olivia.paradox.ai.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight any experience in sales, customer service, interior design, or roles requiring strong interpersonal and problem-solving skills. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Portfolio Preparation: Compile examples of your design-oriented thinking or past client interactions. If you lack formal design experience, focus on transferable skills and customer success stories.

• Interview Practice: Rehearse answers to common sales and customer service interview questions. Practice articulating your approach to client consultations and problem-solving. Be ready for a role-playing scenario.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with ShelfGenie's products, services, and mission. Understand their target market and value proposition to demonstrate informed interest.

⚠️ 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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