Design Consultant

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Consultant

Company: Stoneside LLC. dba is Stoneside Blinds & Shades

Location: Los Angeles, California, United States (Remote OK)

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Sales / Design Consulting

Date Posted: 2026-09-14

Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years)

Remote Status: Remote OK

🚀 Role Summary

• Focuses on in-home consultative selling of custom window treatments, blending design expertise with sales acumen to enhance client spaces.

• Operates as a W-2 employee, emphasizing a stable employment structure with benefits, distinct from independent contractor roles.

• Utilizes pre-qualified, scheduled appointments, eliminating the need for cold calling and allowing focus on client engagement and closing sales.

• Requires independent field work, managing local travel and client interactions, suitable for individuals who prefer an active, mobile work environment.

• Contributes to a high-growth company with a strong emphasis on customer experience and team member satisfaction, evidenced by high ratings on platforms like Glassdoor and Indeed.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Design Consultant," the core responsibilities and compensation structure (commission-based with significant earning potential for top performers) strongly align with a senior-level outside sales or field sales role. The emphasis on "consultative selling" and "closing business" solidifies this. The "Remote OK" designation, coupled with the requirement to travel locally for client appointments, indicates a hybrid remote model where the individual works from home but travels extensively within a defined geographic territory.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct in-home consultations to understand client needs, preferences, and project scope for custom blinds, shades, and draperies.

• Leverage design expertise to inspire clients and propose tailored window treatment solutions that align with their aesthetic and functional requirements.

• Accurately measure spaces and provide detailed specifications for custom product orders.

• Manage a pipeline of pre-qualified leads and scheduled appointments, nurturing client relationships from initial contact through to closing.

• Collaborate effectively with internal installation and operations teams to ensure seamless project execution and a high-quality end-to-end customer experience.

• Stay abreast of evolving interior design trends, product innovations, and competitive offerings to maintain expertise and provide informed recommendations.

• Achieve and exceed established sales targets through a combination of consultative selling skills, product knowledge, organization, and creative problem-solving.

• Manage local travel efficiently, adhering to a schedule of approximately 2 client appointments per day, typically over 3-5 hours of driving daily.

• Maintain professional conduct and deliver an exceptional in-home client experience, fostering trust and exceeding customer expectations.

• Partner with the installation and operations teams to ensure flawless execution from measurement to final installation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of sales, design, and client management. The emphasis on "partnering with installation and operations teams" suggests a need for clear communication and coordination to ensure customer satisfaction post-sale. The role requires a high degree of autonomy in managing daily schedules and client interactions.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a strong understanding of design principles, color theory, and spatial arrangement is crucial. Equivalent practical experience or certifications in interior design or sales are highly valued.

Experience: Proven track record as a top sales performer (top 10-20% of a sales team, evidenced by awards or documented results) with a minimum of 2-5 years of experience.

Required Skills:

• Consultative Selling: Ability to engage clients, understand their needs, and guide them toward solutions, rather than just pushing products.

• Interior Design Acumen: A keen eye for style, color, and space that allows for effective client consultation and product recommendation.

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): Proficiency in managing leads, client interactions, and sales pipelines, likely within a CRM system.

• Measurement & Specification: Precision in taking accurate measurements and detailing product specifications for custom orders.

• Time Management & Organization: Ability to independently manage a dynamic schedule, plan local travel routes efficiently, and prioritize tasks to maximize productivity.

• Professionalism & Communication: Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills, with a polished and professional demeanor suitable for in-home client interactions.

• Self-Motivation & Autonomy: Demonstrated ability to work independently, drive sales performance, and manage oneself without constant supervision.

• Sales Strategy: Understanding of sales cycles, objection handling, and closing techniques.

• Product Knowledge: Aptitude for quickly learning and articulating details about window treatment products, their features, and benefits.

Preferred Skills:

• In-home Sales Experience: Direct experience selling products or services within a client's residence.

• Luxury Retail Background: Experience in high-end retail environments where customer service and product presentation are paramount.

• Design Consulting: Formal experience providing design advice and solutions to clients.

• Technical Aptitude: Comfort with using company-provided technology like iPhones and laptops for sales and communication.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "top sales performer" and "passion for design" suggests that candidates with a demonstrable history of exceeding sales quotas and a genuine interest in interior design will be highly competitive. The "2-5 years" experience level aligns with a mid-level role where foundational sales skills are expected, but significant client management and closing experience is also required.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Sales Performance Documentation: Evidence of consistent top-tier sales performance, such as award certificates, performance reviews highlighting quota attainment, or quantifiable sales metrics (e.g., revenue generated, closing ratios).

• Client Success Case Studies: Examples of successful client projects, detailing the client's initial needs, the proposed design solutions, the sales process, and the positive outcome or client satisfaction achieved.

• Design Consultation Examples: Visuals or descriptions of past design consultations, showcasing an understanding of client needs and the ability to translate them into actionable design plans for window treatments.

• Process Optimization Examples: If applicable, examples of how the candidate has improved their personal sales process, time management, or client communication strategies to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.

Process Documentation:

• Client Engagement Workflow: A clear outline of how the candidate typically engages with a new lead, from initial contact and needs assessment to proposal, closing, and post-sale follow-up.

• Sales Cycle Management: Documentation illustrating the candidate's approach to managing the entire sales cycle, including lead qualification, needs analysis, presentation, objection handling, and closing.

• Collaboration Protocols: Examples of how the candidate communicates and collaborates with internal teams (e.g., operations, installation) to ensure seamless project delivery and customer satisfaction.

• Performance Tracking & Analysis: A description of how the candidate tracks their own sales performance, identifies areas for improvement, and uses data to refine their approach.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role like this, a traditional "process portfolio" might be less about formal documentation and more about presenting tangible evidence of sales success and client engagement. Candidates should be prepared to walk through their sales process and showcase how they manage client relationships and drive results, using examples from their experience.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The provided salary range is $100,000 - $180,000 annually.

• Training Period: $1,500 per week + commission for the first 12 weeks.

• Post-Training: 100% commission.

• Average First-Year Earnings: $130,000+.

• Top Performer Earnings: $185,000 - $200,000+.

• Additional Monthly Bonus: $750+ based on customer reviews.

📝 Enhancement Note: The compensation structure is heavily commission-based, with a significant ramp-up period. The provided salary range and average/top performer earnings reflect this. The $1500/week during training is a draw against future commissions. The bonus structure tied to customer reviews incentivizes high-quality service and customer satisfaction. Research for Los Angeles, CA indicates that outside sales roles with this earning potential are common, particularly in commission-heavy industries like home improvement and luxury goods, and this range is competitive for experienced professionals in this market.

Benefits:

• W-2 employee status (not an independent contractor).

• Mileage reimbursement.

• Parking reimbursement.

• Toll reimbursement.

• Company-provided iPhone.

• Company-provided laptop.

• Company-provided design sample kit.

• Paid, in-person training at their Denver HQ.

• Participation in a Gain Share Program.

Working Hours: While specific daily hours are not explicitly stated, the role involves an average of 2 appointments per day, often requiring 3-5 hours of driving. This suggests a flexible but demanding schedule, likely exceeding a standard 40-hour workweek, especially when factoring in travel, client follow-ups, and administrative tasks. Typically, only 2 Saturdays per month are required.

📝 Enhancement Note: The benefits package is robust for a commission-based role, particularly the provision of essential tools (iPhone, laptop, sample kit) and reimbursement for travel expenses, which are critical for field-based roles. The W-2 status is a significant advantage, offering stability and access to employee benefits typically not available to independent contractors.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Home Improvement / Window Treatments / Interior Design Retail. Stoneside Blinds & Shades operates as a leading provider of custom window coverings, positioning itself as a premium service provider in the home renovation and interior design market.

Company Size: Stoneside LLC. is a growing company, projecting annual growth of 15% to 20%. While an exact employee count isn't provided, its operation in 13 major U.S. markets suggests a significant national presence with a substantial workforce, likely in the hundreds, if not thousands, across sales, operations, installation, and corporate functions.

Founded: The company has been transforming homes for over 16 years, indicating a mature business with established processes and market presence.

Team Structure:

• Sales Team: The Design Consultants operate as a field sales team, reporting to regional sales managers. They work independently in their assigned territories, managing their own schedules and client interactions.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Design Consultants are expected to partner closely with installation crews and operations teams to ensure a seamless customer journey from sale to final product delivery and installation. This requires effective communication and coordination.

• Support Structure: While independent, consultants are supported by the company's marketing efforts (providing leads), training programs, and potentially internal sales support functions.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: The company emphasizes a "five-star experience" for clients, team members, partners, and the community. This philosophy drives client interactions, service delivery, and internal operations.

• Data-Driven Improvement: While not explicitly detailed, the focus on "continuous improvement" and "seeking a better way" suggests a culture that values data analysis and iterative process enhancement.

• Sales & Design Integration: The role bridges sales and design, requiring consultants to not only close deals but also provide valuable design input to clients.

Company Website: https://www.stoneside.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is strongly defined by its stated purpose and core values (Honesty, Positivity, Generosity, Continuous Improvement, Passion). The emphasis on being a "people-first" organization with high employee ratings suggests a supportive and values-driven work environment, which is a significant draw for candidates. The growth trajectory indicates opportunities for career advancement and impact.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a Mid-Level (2-5 years experience) outside sales and design consulting position. It requires a high degree of autonomy and performance-driven success, placing it at a crucial juncture for sales professionals looking to specialize in a consultative, field-based capacity. The compensation structure, with high earning potential for top performers, reflects this level of responsibility and impact.

Reporting Structure: Design Consultants typically report to a Sales Manager or Regional Sales Director. This structure provides guidance, performance management, and support for achieving sales targets. The role involves significant independent work, with regular check-ins and performance reviews managed by this reporting line.

Operations Impact: The Design Consultant directly impacts the company's revenue by closing sales and driving customer acquisition. Their ability to deliver a superior client experience also contributes to customer retention, positive reviews, and brand reputation, which are critical for sustained growth and market leadership in the competitive home improvement sector. Effective collaboration with operations and installation teams ensures that the sales promise translates into a satisfactory customer outcome, minimizing issues and maximizing satisfaction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Sales Leadership: Progression into roles such as Senior Design Consultant, Sales Team Lead, or Sales Manager, overseeing and coaching other consultants.

• Specialization: Developing expertise in specific product lines, design styles, or market segments, potentially leading to roles in product development or specialized sales training.

• Operations & Management: Opportunities to move into operational roles, such as managing installation teams or regional operations, leveraging their understanding of the customer journey from sale to completion.

• Performance-Based Advancement: Continued high performance can lead to increased earning potential, larger client portfolios, and recognition within the company.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a successful Design Consultant at Stoneside is clearly defined within sales and client-facing roles, with potential avenues into management or operational oversight. The company's growth suggests that these opportunities will become increasingly available.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a field-based role with a remote work-from-home component. The primary "work environment" is the client's home, requiring the consultant to travel locally within their designated sales territory. The company provides essential tools like a laptop and iPhone, enabling remote management of schedules, client communications, and order processing.

Office Location(s): The role is based in the Los Angeles, CA area, with potential service to surrounding regions like Orange County. Consultants are expected to reside within 30 minutes of the city center to ensure efficient travel to client appointments.

Workspace Context:

• Mobile Workspace: The consultant's primary workspace is their vehicle, equipped with company-provided samples, laptop, and phone. Efficient organization and management of these mobile resources are key.

• Client Homes: Interactions occur in diverse residential settings, requiring adaptability, professionalism, and the ability to present solutions effectively in a home environment.

• Home Office: A dedicated home office space is beneficial for administrative tasks, planning, and remote communication with management and support teams.

• Collaborative Opportunities: While largely independent, consultants will interact with installation teams during project handoffs and potentially with sales managers during performance reviews or team meetings.

Work Schedule: The schedule is flexible but demanding, centered around client appointments (averaging 2 per day). This typically involves significant daily driving (3-5 hours). While direct client-facing work may be concentrated during typical business hours, the role often requires evening or weekend availability (specifically, 2 Saturdays per month) to accommodate client schedules.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Remote OK" designation is nuanced. While the consultant works remotely from home and travels to clients, they are not fully remote in the sense of working from anywhere. The territory and proximity requirement are critical. The job emphasizes freedom and independence, appealing to individuals who thrive in an active, mobile sales environment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of the application, resume, and potentially a brief phone screen to assess basic qualifications and alignment with the company's values.

• Virtual/In-Person Interview: A more in-depth conversation, likely with a Sales Manager, focusing on sales experience, design passion, consultative selling approach, and cultural fit. Candidates may be asked to present examples from their sales history.

• Portfolio Presentation/Case Study: Candidates might be asked to present a case study of a successful sales project, demonstrating their process, client management skills, and design recommendations. This could involve showcasing past work or a hypothetical scenario.

• Field Ride-Along (Potential): In some sales roles, a field ride-along with a top performer or manager may be part of the process to assess in-field performance and client interaction skills.

• Final Interview/Offer: A final discussion, potentially with HR or senior management, to confirm fit and extend an offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Achievements: For sales roles, numbers speak volumes. Be prepared to present concrete data on your sales performance, closing rates, revenue generated, and client satisfaction metrics.

• Showcase Your Process: Clearly articulate your consultative sales methodology, from lead qualification and needs assessment to proposal, negotiation, and closing. Use specific examples.

• Highlight Design Impact: If presenting design work, focus on how your recommendations solved client problems, enhanced their living space, and led to a successful sale. Visuals are key.

• Demonstrate Culture Fit: Weave in examples that align with Stoneside's core values (Honesty, Positivity, Generosity, Continuous Improvement, Passion) throughout your presentation.

• Prepare for the "Why": Be ready to explain why you are passionate about design and sales, why Stoneside, and why you are a top performer.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Expect questions about how you would handle specific client objections, design dilemmas, or challenging installation scenarios.

• Sales Pitch Practice: Be prepared to deliver a mini-pitch for a product or a full consultation scenario.

• Problem-Solving: Demonstrate your ability to think critically and find solutions that balance client needs, product capabilities, and business objectives.

• Understanding of the Business: Research Stoneside's market position, competitors, and customer base to show informed interest.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "top sales performer" and "design passion" means the interview process will likely assess both quantitative sales results and qualitative design sensibility. Candidates should prepare to articulate their sales process and demonstrate their ability to connect with clients on an aesthetic level.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Company-Provided Mobile Devices: iPhone and Laptop are essential for managing schedules, client communication, CRM access, order entry, and accessing design resources. Proficiency in mobile productivity apps and communication platforms (e.g., email, messaging, video conferencing) is expected.

• CRM System: While not specified, candidates will likely use a CRM (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot, or a proprietary system) for lead management, client tracking, sales pipeline management, and reporting.

• Design Sample Kit: A physical kit containing fabric swatches, product samples, and catalogs will be used during in-home consultations. Organization and presentation of these materials are critical.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Performance Dashboards: Consultants will likely access dashboards or reports within the CRM or a dedicated analytics tool to track their individual sales performance against targets.

• Customer Review Platforms: Monitoring and responding to customer reviews on platforms like Google, Yelp, or internal feedback systems will be important, especially given the bonus structure tied to reviews.

CRM & Automation:

• Lead Management Systems: The company likely uses a system to generate and distribute pre-qualified leads to the sales team.

• Order Management Systems: Tools for entering, tracking, and managing custom orders, ensuring accuracy and timely processing.

• Scheduling & Routing Software: Potentially used for optimizing daily travel routes and managing appointment schedules, though consultants may also manage this manually.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with mobile technology and CRM systems is a baseline requirement. The ability to effectively utilize company-provided tools for sales productivity and client management is crucial. Candidates should be comfortable learning and adapting to the company's specific technology stack.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Honesty: Being truthful, straightforward, and transparent in all client interactions and with internal teams. This means accurately representing product capabilities, timelines, and pricing.

• Positivity: Maintaining a respectful, positive demeanor, assuming positive intent in interactions, and bringing a can-do attitude to client consultations and problem-solving.

• Generosity: Approaching client interactions with an abundance mindset, seeking win-win solutions that benefit both the client and the company. This translates to excellent customer service and willingness to go the extra mile.

• Continuous Improvement: Actively seeking ways to enhance personal sales techniques, design knowledge, client experience, and efficiency in daily operations. This involves being open to feedback and implementing new strategies.

• Passion: Demonstrating genuine engagement and enthusiasm for design, sales, and fulfilling the company's five-star promise to clients. This passion is key to inspiring clients and driving sales success.

Collaboration Style:

• Independent but Connected: While consultants work autonomously in the field, they are expected to maintain strong communication channels with their sales managers and operations/installation teams.

• Proactive Communication: Sharing necessary client details, project specifications, and any potential issues promptly with relevant internal teams to ensure smooth project execution.

• Feedback Loop: Participating in feedback sessions with managers and potentially installation teams to continuously improve processes and client outcomes.

• Team-Oriented: Despite the independent nature of the role, contributing to the overall success of the sales team and company through consistent performance and adherence to values.

📝 Enhancement Note: Stoneside's explicit commitment to its core values suggests that candidates will be evaluated not just on their sales performance but also on their alignment with these principles. Demonstrating how you embody these values in your professional interactions will be important.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Commission-Based Income Fluctuation: The 100% commission structure post-training means income can vary significantly based on sales performance and market conditions. This requires strong financial management and resilience.

• Independent Workload Management: Balancing a demanding schedule of client appointments, travel, administrative tasks, and continuous learning requires exceptional self-discipline and time management skills.

• Client Expectations Management: Ensuring client satisfaction while navigating product limitations, installation timelines, and budget constraints requires skillful communication and negotiation.

• Adapting to Design Trends: The interior design landscape evolves rapidly, necessitating continuous learning and adaptation to stay relevant and provide cutting-edge solutions.

• Navigating Installation & Operations: Potential challenges can arise from coordination with installation teams or operational processes, requiring effective problem-solving and communication to resolve issues for the client.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Sales Training: Access to ongoing training focused on consultative selling techniques, negotiation skills, and closing strategies to further hone sales prowess.

• Product & Design Education: Continuous learning about new window treatment products, materials, technologies, and emerging interior design trends.

• Performance Coaching: Regular coaching and feedback from sales managers to identify areas for improvement and strategize for increased performance.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from experienced top-performing consultants and potentially develop into a mentor role for new team members.

• Career Path Progression: Clear pathways to advance into sales leadership, specialized roles, or management positions within the growing organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers significant earning potential but also demands high performance and resilience. Candidates should be prepared for the inherent variability of commission-based sales and be proactive in their professional development to overcome challenges and capitalize on growth opportunities.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for conducting an in-home design consultation, from initial greeting to closing the sale." (Focus on consultative approach, needs assessment, proposal, objection handling, and closing.)

• "How do you stay updated on interior design trends, and how do you incorporate them into your recommendations while meeting client needs and budgets?" (Demonstrate continuous learning and client-centricity.)

• "Share an example of a time you had to manage a difficult client or a challenging situation during a sales process. How did you resolve it, and what was the outcome?" (Highlight problem-solving, communication, and commitment to customer satisfaction, aligning with "Honesty" and "Positivity.")

• "How do you manage your time and prioritize tasks when working independently in the field, aiming to complete an average of two appointments per day?" (Emphasize organizational skills, efficiency, and self-motivation.)

• "Given Stoneside's values of Honesty, Positivity, Generosity, Continuous Improvement, and Passion, how do you see yourself embodying these in this role?" (Prepare specific examples for each value.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to Stoneside Blinds & Shades specifically, beyond the compensation and the role itself?" (Research the company's mission, values, and market position.)

• "How do you contribute to a positive team environment, even when working independently?" (Discuss communication, collaboration, and support for colleagues.)

• "Describe your experience working in a results-driven environment. How do you handle pressure and maintain motivation?" (Focus on resilience, goal orientation, and performance metrics.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each case study, clearly outline the client's problem, your proposed solution, the sales process you followed, and the measurable results (e.g., increased sales, client satisfaction).

• Quantify Impact: Use numbers and data to illustrate your success. For example, "Increased closing rate by X%," "Generated $Y in revenue," or "Achieved Z% customer satisfaction score."

• Visual Aids: If possible, use high-quality photos of completed projects, design mock-ups, or charts to visually represent your work and its impact.

• Connect to Values: Explicitly link your experiences and achievements back to Stoneside's core values.

• Be Prepared for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your process, challenges encountered, and how you would handle specific scenarios relevant to the role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to articulate their sales process in detail, provide concrete examples of their success, and demonstrate a genuine passion for design and customer service that aligns with Stoneside's values.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the Ashby application link provided.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight quantifiable sales achievements, experience in consultative selling, any design-related background, and instances where you demonstrated Stoneside's core values. Use keywords from the job description such as "Design Consultant," "in-home sales," "consultative selling," and "customer satisfaction."

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Gather evidence of your sales success, such as performance metrics, client testimonials, and examples of successful projects. Be ready to discuss your sales process and how you manage client relationships.

• Practice Your Pitch: Rehearse how you would present your qualifications, your sales methodology, and your understanding of Stoneside's values. Be prepared for scenario-based questions and to potentially walk through a mock consultation.

• Research Stoneside: Thoroughly understand the company's mission, values, products, and market position. Familiarize yourself with their customer reviews and any recent news or achievements to demonstrate informed interest during the interview process.

⚠️ 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.