Design Consultant — Build A Business & Help People

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Consultant — Build A Business & Help People

Company: Closet Factory - Houston

Location: Houston, Texas, United States

Job Type: Full Time - commission only

Category: Sales Operations / GTM Enablement

Date Posted: 2026-08-19

Experience Level: 2-5 years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is a unique opportunity to operate as an independent business owner within an established national brand, focusing on high-volume, commission-only sales within the custom home organization sector.

• Success hinges on exceptional client engagement, consultative selling, and the ability to translate client needs into compelling custom design solutions, driving revenue growth through direct sales and referrals.

• Candidates will leverage provided marketing leads, software, and training to manage their appointment schedule, conduct in-home consultations, and close sales, with a strong emphasis on relationship building and long-term client value.

• The position demands a entrepreneurial spirit, self-motivation, and a commitment to continuous learning and skill development in sales, design, and client management, aiming for top performers to earn $100,000+ annually.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Design Consultant" title, while seemingly focused on aesthetics, is framed as a sales and business-building role. The emphasis on "Build A Business & Help People" and the commission-only structure strongly suggest a Sales Operations or Go-To-Market (GTM) enablement function, where the individual is empowered to drive revenue and manage their own sales pipeline akin to a small business unit. The core responsibilities revolve around lead conversion, client relationship management, and sales execution, which are critical components of sales operations and GTM strategy.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct in-home consultations to understand client needs for custom storage solutions, translating these into detailed design proposals.

• Manage a pipeline of qualified leads generated by the company, converting appointments into successful sales through persuasive consultation and closing techniques.

• Build and maintain strong client relationships, aiming for repeat business and high-value referrals through exceptional service and product delivery.

• Develop and execute a territory-based sales strategy within the Houston metropolitan area, optimizing appointment scheduling and route planning.

• Continuously enhance product knowledge and design skills through provided training and self-directed learning to offer innovative and effective client solutions.

• Utilize company-provided CRM and design software to manage client interactions, track sales progress, and generate project specifications.

• Achieve and exceed personal sales targets and revenue goals through effective sales execution and client satisfaction.

• Collaborate with the local team to share best practices, contribute to a positive sales environment, and support overall business objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the raw description focuses on the sales execution, the "Build A Business" aspect implies a need for strategic thinking around territory management, client segmentation, and referral program development, which are key GTM operations functions. The emphasis on "solving problems" and "custom solutions" also points to a consultative sales process that requires deep understanding of client needs and product capabilities, a core element of effective sales enablement.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent required. Post-secondary education in a related field (e.g., business, design, marketing) is a plus. Experience:

• Minimum of 2 years of proven sales experience is mandatory, with a strong track record of meeting or exceeding sales targets.

• Experience in home improvement, interior design, custom sales, or related consultative sales environments is highly advantageous but not strictly required. Required Skills:

• Sales Acumen: Demonstrated ability to consultatively sell, understand client needs, present solutions, and close deals, with a focus on commission-based environments.

• Client Relationship Management: Proven ability to build rapport, establish trust, and nurture long-term client relationships, leading to repeat business and referrals.

• Organizational Skills: Excellent time management, scheduling, and follow-up capabilities to effectively manage multiple client appointments and sales processes.

• Technological Proficiency: Comfort and competence in using computers, software applications (CRM, design tools), and digital communication platforms.

• Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate design concepts and sales proposals clearly and persuasively.

• Problem-Solving: Aptitude for identifying client pain points and developing creative, practical solutions through custom design.

• Growth Mindset: A proactive, self-starting attitude with a commitment to continuous learning, skill development, and embracing training opportunities.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with CRM software (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot, or proprietary systems) for pipeline management and client tracking.

• Familiarity with design software or visualization tools, particularly in the home improvement or interior design space.

• Demonstrated entrepreneurial drive and experience in managing personal sales targets or business development initiatives.

• A strong understanding of the Houston market and its demographic nuances for targeted sales approaches.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for "Computers & Technology" and "Good Organization and Follow Up Skills" are critical for effective Sales Operations and GTM execution, enabling efficient lead management, pipeline tracking, and client communication. The "growth mindset" and "entrepreneurship" aspects are crucial for individuals operating in a commission-only, build-your-own-business model, which aligns with GTM enablement principles of empowering sales professionals.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Sales Case Studies: Documented examples of successful sales cycles, highlighting your approach from lead engagement to closing, with specific metrics on deal size, close rate, and client satisfaction.

• Client Testimonials/Referrals: Evidence of strong client relationships, such as direct testimonials, positive reviews, or a documented history of generating referrals.

• Design Solutions: Visual examples of custom solutions you have designed and sold, demonstrating your ability to translate client needs into practical, aesthetically pleasing, and functional spaces.

• Process Improvement Examples: If applicable, examples of how you've improved your personal sales process, lead conversion strategies, or client follow-up methods to increase efficiency and effectiveness.

Process Documentation:

• Consultative Sales Workflow: A clear outline of your typical client engagement process, from initial contact and needs assessment to proposal presentation, negotiation, and closing.

• Lead Management Strategy: Description of how you prioritize and manage incoming leads to maximize conversion rates, including follow-up cadence and communication strategies.

• Client Onboarding & Follow-up: Details on how you onboard new clients post-sale and maintain engagement for potential future projects or referrals.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a commission-only role focused on building a business, a portfolio showcasing successful sales outcomes, client relationship management, and the ability to execute a defined sales process is paramount. This demonstrates not just sales ability but also operational discipline and a client-centric approach, key for sustained revenue generation.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated Annual Earnings: $50,000 - $120,000+ (Commission-Based)

  • Base: $0 (Commission Only)
  • On-Target Earnings (OTE): $70,000 - $100,000+
  • Top Performer Potential: $100,000+

• Explanation: This role is 100% commission-based. Earnings are directly tied to sales performance. The provided estimate of "$100,000+" for top performers is a strong indicator of the earning potential. The lower end of the OTE range ($70,000) assumes consistent performance, while higher earnings are attainable with strong sales skills, effective lead conversion, and building a robust client base and referral network. The estimated range reflects typical commission-only sales roles in consultative services within the Houston market, considering the company's established brand and lead generation support.

Benefits:

• Paid Training Program: Comprehensive one-week paid training program to equip you with product knowledge, sales techniques, and design software proficiency.

• Performance Bonuses: Potential for performance-based bonuses beyond standard commission, as mentioned in the job description.

• Marketing & Lead Generation Support: Access to company-driven marketing efforts and provided leads to fuel your sales pipeline.

• Established Brand Recognition: The backing of a nationally recognized leader with 44 years of industry experience and partnerships with major retailers.

• Entrepreneurial Opportunity: The chance to build your own business within a supportive corporate structure, offering autonomy and significant earning potential.

• Flexible Schedule: While requiring 4 appointments per week (including evenings and Saturdays), the role offers flexibility in structuring your work week around client availability.

Working Hours:

• Variable, dictated by client appointments, which include evenings and Saturdays. The role requires availability for a minimum of 4 client appointments per week. A typical full-time commitment is expected to manage leads, conduct consultations, and follow up effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a commission-only role, clearly outlining the earning potential, the structure of compensation (commission plus potential bonuses), and the support provided (leads, training, brand) is crucial. Highlighting the "paid training" is a significant benefit for a role requiring specialized skills. The estimated salary range is based on the explicit mention of "$100,000+" for top performers and the nature of a commission-only sales role in a competitive market like Houston.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Home Furnishings & Services / Custom Storage Solutions

Company Size: Large (1,000+ employees globally, though the Houston branch may be smaller)

Founded: 1978 (Closet Factory national)

Company Description: Closet Factory is a national leader in custom home organization solutions, with over 40 years of experience. They partner with clients to design and manufacture personalized storage systems for closets, garages, kitchens, and more. Their business model emphasizes quality craftsmanship, innovative design, and exceptional customer service. The Houston branch operates as a local franchise, leveraging the national brand's reputation and marketing support.

Team Structure:

• The role operates within the Houston franchise, likely reporting to a Sales Manager or Franchise Owner.

• You will be part of a local team of sales consultants, designers, and potentially installation/manufacturing staff.

• Collaboration is expected with marketing and operations support staff who manage lead generation and administrative tasks. Methodology:

• Consultative Sales: The core methodology involves understanding client needs through in-depth conversations and site visits, followed by designing tailored solutions.

• Data-Driven Lead Conversion: Utilizing provided marketing leads and CRM data to prioritize outreach and manage the sales funnel effectively.

• Process Optimization: Encouraging consultants to develop efficient workflows for scheduling, design, and client follow-up to maximize productivity and earnings.

• Customer-Centric Design: Focusing on creating functional, beautiful, and personalized spaces that genuinely improve clients' lives, fostering long-term loyalty.

Company Website: closetfactory.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's long-standing presence and partnerships suggest a stable and reputable organization, which is a positive signal for a commission-based role. The "build your own business" aspect implies a culture that empowers individuals while providing a strong framework and support system, common in successful franchise models and GTM enablement structures.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Independent Contributor / Business Owner within an Organization

• This role is positioned as an entrepreneurial sales professional who manages their own client base and sales targets. While not a traditional corporate operations role, it requires operational discipline, strategic planning, and a focus on driving revenue efficiently, mirroring aspects of a GTM operations specialist managing a sales territory. The "Build A Business" framing elevates it beyond a standard sales position. Reporting Structure:

• Likely reports directly to a Sales Manager or Franchise Owner, with a focus on performance metrics and sales outcomes.

• Operates with a high degree of autonomy in managing client interactions and scheduling. Operations Impact:

• Directly impacts revenue generation for the Houston franchise through the acquisition of new clients and the sale of custom storage solutions.

• Contributes to brand reputation and market share through exceptional client experiences and the generation of high-quality referrals.

• Drives operational efficiency by effectively managing a sales territory and optimizing personal workflows. Growth Opportunities:

• Income Growth: Significant potential to increase earnings by refining sales techniques, expanding client networks, and generating a strong referral base.

• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in custom design, consultative selling, and client relationship management within the home improvement sector.

• Leadership Potential: Experienced and high-performing consultants may have opportunities to mentor new team members, take on larger or more complex projects, or potentially transition into sales management roles within the franchise.

• Business Acumen: Develop entrepreneurial skills in business management, marketing, and client acquisition, transferable to various GTM or sales leadership paths.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path here is primarily tied to individual performance and entrepreneurial drive rather than a traditional hierarchical promotion. This aligns with GTM enablement, where success is often measured by the individual's ability to drive revenue and operate effectively as a self-sufficient unit.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Field-Based Sales Role with Central Support

• The primary work environment is the client's home, requiring travel within the Houston metropolitan area.

• Support, training, and administrative functions are likely based out of a local showroom or office. Office Location(s):

• 915 Brenda Street, Houston, TX 77076 (Likely showroom/operational hub)

• Client homes throughout the Houston region. Workspace Context:

• Client Homes: Requires professionalism, adaptability, and the ability to conduct business in diverse residential settings.

• Personal Office/Home Office: The consultant will need a dedicated space for administrative tasks, client follow-up, and potentially design work.

• Showroom/Hub: Access to a professional environment for training, team meetings, and potentially client presentations.

• Tools & Technology: Reliance on company-provided software (CRM, design tools) and personal technology (laptop, smartphone) for communication and productivity.

Work Schedule:

• Flexible, but requires a commitment to being available for 4 client appointments per week, including evenings and Saturdays. The role demands self-discipline to manage time effectively and meet sales targets.

📝 Enhancement Note: The field-based nature of this role requires strong self-management and time-blocking skills, essential for any operations professional, especially those managing remote or distributed teams/processes. The blend of autonomy and required availability is key.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess sales experience and alignment with the role's core requirements.

• First Interview: Typically with a hiring manager (Sales Manager or Franchise Owner) to discuss your sales background, motivations, and understanding of commission-based roles. Expect questions about your approach to client engagement and problem-solving.

• Skills Assessment/Role Play: May involve a simulated sales consultation or design presentation to evaluate your consultative selling skills, communication abilities, and comfort with technology.

• Meet the Team: An opportunity to interact with other team members to assess cultural fit and gain insights into the local team dynamics.

• Final Interview/Offer: Discussion of compensation structure, benefits, training program details, and final offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Achievements: For any sales examples, use specific numbers: deal sizes, revenue generated, client acquisition numbers, conversion rates, and referral percentages.

• Showcase Process: Clearly articulate your consultative sales process. Use a visual aid if possible (e.g., a simple flowchart) to demonstrate how you engage clients, identify needs, and present solutions.

• Highlight Client Focus: Include testimonials or case studies that emphasize client satisfaction, problem resolution, and the long-term value you provided.

• Visuals are Key: For a design consultant role, include high-quality images of projects you've been involved in, showcasing the before-and-after or the final customized solution.

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize experiences that align with home improvement, custom solutions, or consultative B2C sales.

Challenge Preparation:

• Sales Scenario: Be prepared to role-play a client consultation. Focus on active listening, asking probing questions, understanding unspoken needs, and presenting a solution that directly addresses those needs.

• Design Thinking: Think about how you would approach a common home organization challenge (e.g., a small closet, a cluttered garage). Outline your process for assessing the space and proposing a solution.

• Objection Handling: Prepare for common sales objections (e.g., price, timing, existing solutions) and practice your responses, focusing on value-based selling.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio that showcases both sales results and the consultative process is crucial for this role. It demonstrates the candidate's ability to not only sell but also to operate efficiently and effectively as a business unit.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM System: Likely a proprietary system or a widely used platform (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot) for lead tracking, client management, pipeline visibility, and sales forecasting. Proficiency in managing client data and sales activities is essential.

• Design Software: Specialized software for creating custom closet and storage designs (e.g., SketchUp, proprietary Closet Factory design tools). Ability to create 2D and 3D visualizations is key.

• Communication Platforms: Email, phone, and potentially messaging apps for client and team communication.

• Productivity Suite: Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) or Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Slides) for documentation, proposals, and presentations.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Performance Dashboards: Access to dashboards within the CRM or company reporting tools to track personal sales metrics, conversion rates, and revenue against targets.

• Forecasting Tools: Utilizing CRM functionalities to forecast future sales based on pipeline status and conversion probabilities.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM for Workflow Automation: Leveraging the CRM to automate follow-up reminders, schedule appointments, and manage client communication touchpoints.

• Design Tool Integrations: Potential for integration between design software and CRM for seamless proposal generation and order processing.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with CRM and design software is explicitly or implicitly required. Understanding how these tools support sales operations, client management, and revenue generation is a core expectation for this role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Client-Centricity: A deep commitment to understanding and exceeding client expectations by providing personalized solutions and exceptional service.

• Entrepreneurial Spirit: Encouraging initiative, self-reliance, and a proactive approach to building a successful business within the company framework.

• Collaboration & Support: Fostering a team environment where members support each other's success, share best practices, and contribute to a positive work atmosphere.

• Integrity & Quality: Upholding high standards in design, craftsmanship, and customer interactions, building trust and long-term relationships.

• Continuous Improvement: A dedication to ongoing learning, skill development, and refining processes to enhance personal effectiveness and client outcomes.

Collaboration Style:

• Independent Execution with Team Support: While consultants operate largely independently in the field, there's an expectation of collaboration for training, sharing market insights, and potentially assisting with complex projects.

• Feedback Loop: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback to improve sales strategies, design approaches, and operational efficiencies.

• Shared Goals: Working towards collective franchise success while individually striving to meet personal sales targets.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture emphasizes autonomy balanced with team support, a common and effective model for sales organizations, particularly those with a franchise or independent contractor component. This requires individuals who are self-motivated but also capable of contributing to a collective environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Commission-Only Pressure: The inherent challenge of a 100% commission role requires consistent high performance and the ability to manage income fluctuations.

• Territory Management: Effectively covering the expansive Houston area, optimizing travel time, and ensuring consistent client engagement across a broad geographical region.

• Balancing Sales & Design: Juggling the demands of lead conversion, client consultations, design creation, and administrative tasks efficiently.

• Competition: Navigating a competitive market for home improvement and custom storage solutions.

• Client Expectations: Managing diverse client needs and expectations, ensuring satisfaction with custom solutions.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Intensive Sales & Design Training: A structured, paid training program covering product knowledge, sales methodologies, and design software.

• Mentorship: Potential for guidance from experienced sales managers or top-performing consultants within the Houston team.

• Product & Industry Updates: Ongoing learning about new materials, design trends, and storage solutions to maintain a competitive edge.

• Business Development Skills: Gaining practical experience in managing a personal sales territory, client acquisition, and building a referral network.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a commission-only sales role, but the company's support structure (leads, training, brand) aims to mitigate some of these. The growth opportunities are centered on developing robust sales and business management skills.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for a typical in-home sales consultation, from walking in the door to closing the deal." (Focus on active listening, needs assessment, solution presentation, and closing techniques).

• "How do you handle objections related to price or the need for custom solutions compared to off-the-shelf options?" (Prepare value-based selling arguments and ROI justifications).

• "Imagine a client has a very small, awkward closet space. Walk me through how you would approach designing a solution for them." (Demonstrate problem-solving skills, creativity, and understanding of space optimization).

• "What is your experience with commission-only sales roles, and how do you ensure consistent income and performance?" (Highlight self-discipline, proactive lead generation/follow-up, and financial planning).

• "How do you stay motivated and organized when working independently, especially with variable income?" (Emphasize goal setting, time management, and routine building). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Closet Factory and our position in the custom storage market?" (Research the company's history, partnerships, and value proposition).

• "Why are you interested in building a business within our framework, rather than pursuing a traditional sales role or starting your own independent business?" (Articulate the benefits of brand support, lead generation, and structured training).

• "How do you approach building long-term relationships with clients that lead to repeat business and referrals?" (Share examples of exceptional customer service and follow-up strategies). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Concise Case Studies: Prepare 2-3 detailed case studies of successful sales engagements. For each, outline the client's problem, your proposed solution, the sales process, and the quantifiable outcome (e.g., revenue, satisfaction, referral).

• Visuals: Use high-quality photos of your designs, showing before-and-after if possible. If you don't have personal project photos, use examples from the company's portfolio that you could have sold.

• Process Flow: Be ready to verbally (or visually, if allowed) walk through your consultative sales process.

• Focus on Impact: Highlight how your solutions improved the client's life or solved a significant problem, not just the aesthetic outcome.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating both sales execution skills and the operational discipline required to manage a self-directed sales territory effectively. The portfolio should serve as tangible proof of these capabilities.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on careers.hireology.com.

• Portfolio Customization: Prepare a concise portfolio showcasing 2-3 successful sales engagements. Quantify your results, detail your consultative process, and include visuals of custom solutions.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your sales experience, client relationship management skills, organizational abilities, and any experience with technology relevant to sales or design. Use keywords like "commission sales," "client consultations," "lead conversion," "custom solutions," and "CRM."

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your sales process, handling objections, and discussing your approach to building a business within a supportive framework. Be ready to discuss your motivation for a commission-only role and your understanding of the Houston market.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Closet Factory's brand, history, product offerings, and their partnerships. Understand their value proposition and how you can contribute to their success in Houston.

⚠️ 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.