Design Consultant - Cincinnati

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Consultant

Company: Springs Window Fashions

Location: Cincinnati, Ohio, United States

Job Type: OTHER

Category: Sales Operations / GTM

Date Posted: 2026-06-25

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive revenue generation through in-home sales consultations for custom window coverings, focusing on a best-in-class customer experience.

• Collaborate closely with big box retail partners to educate, motivate, and train their staff on Springs Window Fashions' programs and product offerings.

• Manage a sales territory, cultivating relationships with retail associates, store managers, and district/regional leadership to drive qualified leads for the Shop-at-Home program.

• Utilize interior design passion and consultative sales skills to guide consumers in selecting optimal window covering solutions for their homes, ensuring a seamless quoting, selling, and order submission process.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as an entry point into the company's retail sales team, offering significant opportunities for professional growth and career advancement within Springs Window Fashions. The focus on in-home sales consultations and retail partner engagement suggests a strong GTM (Go-to-Market) operational component, requiring effective territory management and lead generation strategies.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct approximately 85% of work time in the field, performing in-home sales consultations by assisting and educating customers on the best window covering selections for their homes, facilitating the quoting and selling process, and finalizing sales by submitting orders.

• Dedicate approximately 10% of work time to close collaboration with Big Box Retailers, including educating, motivating, and training their Associates, Store and Department Managers, and District and Regional Managers on Springs' programs.

• Maintain supporting relationships with a Springs Field Sales Representative and Window Treatment Installer within the assigned territory to help drive store leads and ensure seamless customer fulfillment.

• Allocate approximately 5% of work time to essential communication and planning activities, including territory management, sales forecasting, and coordination with internal support teams.

• Actively assess job sites to identify the most appropriate window covering solutions, considering factors like window squareness, installation or operating obstacles, and application conditions.

• Effectively manage consumer expectations and deliver a superior shop-at-home experience, leveraging strong personal and selling skills alongside product knowledge.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities outline a field-based sales role with a significant emphasis on direct consumer engagement and B2B relationship management within a retail channel. This necessitates strong GTM operations, including territory planning, lead management, and cross-functional coordination with installation and support teams.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent is required.

• A bachelor's degree in a related field is preferred. Experience:

• A minimum of one year of previous related work experience is preferred.

• Experience in interior design, color consultation, or window treatments is a plus.

• Experience in a consumer-facing sales role, particularly in-home sales or retail, is highly beneficial. Required Skills:

• Inspiring and persuasive communication and presentation skills, with the ability to influence a broad range of people and personalities.

• Ability to excel in a high-pressure work environment that demands meticulous attention to detail, with strong emphasis on multi-tasking and prioritizing effectively.

• Demonstrated ability to assess job sites and identify appropriate solutions, considering technical installation and application conditions.

• Proficient with MS Office Suite, mobile devices, email, and CRM systems, with a strong aptitude for learning new applications quickly.

• Excellent soft personal skills, essential for consumer expectation setting and managing the shop-at-home experience.

• Ability to use a tape or digital measure accurately to provide precise dimensions for quoting and ordering.

• Valid Driver's License is required for frequent day travel within the assigned territory. Preferred Skills:

• Previous experience specifically with window treatments.

• A passion for interior design and décor.

• Experience working with big box retail partners or managing retail sales programs.

• Proven track record in consultative selling and closing deals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "Inspiring and persuasive communication/presentation skills" and the ability to "influence a broad range of people" points to a need for strong interpersonal and stakeholder management capabilities, crucial for both direct consumer sales and retail partner engagement. Proficiency in CRM and MS Office are standard for GTM roles, while accurate measurement and site assessment highlight the practical, on-the-ground operational aspects of the job.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase of successful in-home sales consultations, demonstrating the ability to guide customers from initial contact to finalized order.

• Examples of how complex customer needs were identified and translated into optimal window covering solutions.

• Documentation of retail partner engagement strategies, highlighting successful training or motivational initiatives for store staff.

• Evidence of territory management and lead generation success, potentially including pipeline growth metrics or conversion rates. Process Documentation:

• Case studies detailing the process of managing a sales consultation from appointment setting through order submission, emphasizing efficiency and customer satisfaction.

• Examples of how CRM systems were utilized to track leads, manage customer interactions, and forecast sales within a territory.

• Documentation of how accurate measurements and site assessments were conducted and translated into precise order specifications.

• Evidence of collaboration with internal teams (e.g., Field Sales Rep, Installer) to ensure a smooth customer fulfillment process.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal portfolio may not be explicitly required for this entry-level role, candidates are strongly advised to prepare examples demonstrating their sales process, customer interaction skills, and ability to manage a territory. This aligns with common practices for GTM roles where demonstrating practical application of skills is key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated Annual Base Salary: $25,000

• Stipend for the first 9 months: $7,500 (in addition to base salary)

• Total Guaranteed Compensation (First 9 Months): $32,500

• Eligibility for Commissions: This position is eligible for commissions in accordance with the company's incentive compensation program. Benefits:

• Medical Insurance

• Dental Insurance

• Vision Insurance

• 401(k) Retirement Plan with up to a 5% company match of eligible contributions.

• Life Insurance

• Long-term Disability Insurance

• Short-term Disability Insurance

• Paid Sick Time (meeting or exceeding all local requirements)

• Paid Vacation Time

• Paid Holidays

• Compensation for commuting expenses.

• Vehicle program provided. Working Hours:

• The role is expected to require approximately 40 hours per week, with frequent day travel within the assigned territory. The schedule will be driven by customer appointments and retail partner engagement needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The compensation structure includes a competitive base salary, a significant initial stipend to support the first nine months of employment and training, and an uncapped commission potential. The inclusion of commuting expense compensation and a vehicle program is highly relevant for a field-based sales role. The benefits package is comprehensive, aligning with industry standards for full-time employees.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Consumer Products (Window Coverings)

Company Size: Springs Window Fashions is part of a larger organization (likely Fortune Brands Home & Security), indicating a stable and resource-rich environment. While specific numbers for Springs Window Fashions aren't provided, its scale suggests a structured approach to sales operations and GTM strategy.

Founded: The company's long-standing presence in the market (implied by its premier status) suggests a culture that values experience, reliability, and customer focus.

Team Structure:

• The Design Consultant will be part of the Retail Sales team, specifically focused on the "Shop-at-Home" program.

• They will work closely with Big Box Retailers' staff (Associates, Managers) and potentially support them in educating and motivating these teams.

• The role involves collaboration with internal Springs resources, including a Field Sales Representative and a Window Treatment Installer within their territory, indicating a coordinated GTM execution model.

• Reporting structure likely involves a Sales Manager or similar leadership role overseeing the territory-based Design Consultants. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Sales: While not explicitly stated, the focus on CRM and sales performance implies a need for data tracking, analysis, and reporting to manage territory performance and identify opportunities.

• Customer-Centric Approach: The company tagline "The Best Experience Company" and the emphasis on customer satisfaction in the role description highlight a strong customer-first methodology in all GTM interactions.

• Process Optimization: The role involves refining the sales consultation process, improving retail partner engagement, and ensuring efficient order submission, all key aspects of operational excellence in GTM.

Company Website: www.springswindowfashions.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is heavily influenced by its "Best Experience Company" tagline, emphasizing customer satisfaction, associate empowerment, and operational efficiency. The structure suggests a blend of direct sales execution and channel enablement, requiring strong collaboration across internal teams and external retail partners.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This Design Consultant role is positioned as an "entry point for a starting career at Springs Window Fashions." It's an individual contributor role focused on direct sales execution and field operations.

Reporting Structure:

• The Design Consultant will report to a sales leadership role, likely a Sales Manager or Regional Sales Manager.

• They will collaborate with Field Sales Representatives and Window Treatment Installers, indicating a matrixed operational support structure.

• The role requires interaction with various levels within retail partner organizations, from store associates to district/regional managers. Operations Impact:

• The primary impact is direct revenue generation through sales conversions.

• The role also influences GTM effectiveness by strengthening retail partnerships and driving program adoption within those channels.

• Successful execution contributes to customer satisfaction and brand reputation through the "Best Experience" delivered during consultations. Growth Opportunities:

• Sales Skill Development: Extensive hands-on experience with big box retailers, customer service, and consultative selling, supported by a new training program.

• Product & Industry Expertise: In-depth product knowledge sessions and practical application in the field.

• Career Advancement: Opportunities for progression into more senior sales roles, territory management, or potentially other functions within the broader organization.

• Leadership Potential: Exposure to training and motivating retail staff can be a stepping stone to leadership roles.

• Exposure to Other Roles: The company explicitly mentions exposure to other roles and functions within Springs Window Fashions.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is ideal for individuals looking to build a foundational career in sales operations and GTM, with a clear path for development. The emphasis on training and internal mobility suggests a supportive environment for early-career professionals.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is primarily a field-based role, with the "office" being the assigned sales territory and the customer's home. There is no mention of a traditional office requirement for daily work, but training sessions might occur in specific locations.

Office Location(s): The role covers the Cincinnati, Dayton, and Lexington areas, requiring frequent day travel within this designated territory.

Workspace Context:

• Mobile & Dynamic: The workspace is the open road and customer homes, requiring adaptability and self-management.

• Technology-Enabled: Proficient use of MS Office, mobile devices, email, and CRM systems is essential for managing daily tasks, communication, and sales data.

• Collaborative Field Network: While working independently in the field, the Design Consultant is part of a network including a Field Sales Representative and a Window Treatment Installer, fostering a sense of team support.

Work Schedule:

• Expected to work approximately 40 hours per week.

• The schedule is flexible and driven by customer appointments and retail partner needs, requiring availability for day travel and consultations. This means the schedule can vary significantly day-to-day.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site, field-based nature of this role is a key characteristic. Successful candidates will be comfortable with independent work, extensive travel within their territory, and managing their schedule dynamically to meet customer and partner demands.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely involves a review of the application and resume, focusing on relevant sales experience, customer service skills, and interior design interest.

• Phone/Video Interview: A conversation to assess communication skills, sales aptitude, understanding of the role, and cultural fit. Questions may focus on sales scenarios and soft skills.

• In-Person Interview/Ride-Along: Potentially includes meeting with a hiring manager and possibly a Field Sales Representative. A ride-along with an experienced consultant could be part of the process to evaluate real-world application of skills.

• Final Interview: May involve meeting with higher-level sales leadership to confirm fit and discuss career aspirations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Sales Acumen: Prepare examples of successful sales consultations, highlighting your ability to understand customer needs, present solutions, and close deals. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., conversion rates, average sale value).

• Demonstrate Design Sensibility: If you have a passion for interior design, be ready to discuss your aesthetic and how you apply it to client recommendations.

• Illustrate Process Management: Be ready to explain your approach to managing a sales pipeline, scheduling appointments, conducting in-home assessments, and submitting orders accurately.

• Highlight Retail Collaboration: Prepare examples of how you've worked with partners or supported retail environments, demonstrating your ability to engage and train others.

Challenge Preparation:

• Sales Scenario Role-Playing: Be prepared for scenarios where you might need to handle customer objections, present product benefits, or explain pricing.

• Territory Management Discussion: Expect questions about how you would approach planning your daily/weekly schedule, prioritizing leads, and managing travel within a designated territory.

• Problem-Solving: Be ready to discuss how you would handle a challenging customer situation or a logistical issue related to an installation.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal "portfolio" might not be standard for this entry-level sales role, candidates should prepare to discuss their experience and skills through examples. The interview process will likely assess both sales capability and the ability to embody the "Best Experience Company" ethos.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM System: Essential for lead tracking, customer data management, sales pipeline visibility, and reporting. Candidates should be proficient or quickly learn the company's specific CRM.

• MS Office Suite: Including Word (for documentation), Excel (for data analysis, basic reporting), and PowerPoint (for presentations, potentially to retail partners).

• Mobile Devices: Smartphones or tablets are critical for communication, accessing CRM, and potentially using specialized apps for quoting or design visualization.

• Digital Measuring Tools: Proficiency with tape measures or digital measuring devices is required for accurate quoting and ordering.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly responsible for complex analytics, the Design Consultant will likely use CRM reports to track personal performance, sales trends within their territory, and conversion rates. CRM & Automation:

• CRM: The primary system for managing customer interactions and sales processes.

• Potential for Quoting Software: The company may utilize specialized software for generating quotes and order forms, which candidates will need to learn.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is focused on enabling field sales operations. Proficiency in CRM and mobile applications is paramount, as these tools are central to daily workflow, customer management, and sales tracking.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer First: This is paramount, as the company's tagline emphasizes creating the "Best Experience Company." Every interaction, from initial consultation to post-sale follow-up, should reflect this value.

• Ownership: Taking full responsibility for sales targets, customer satisfaction, and the accuracy of orders and measurements.

• Continuous Innovation: Being open to learning new product lines, sales techniques, and utilizing new tools to improve performance and customer experience.

• Speed: Operating with a sense of urgency when responding to customer inquiries, scheduling appointments, and submitting orders to maintain momentum and customer satisfaction.

• Do the Right Thing, Always: Upholding ethical sales practices, honesty with customers, and integrity in all dealings.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Working closely with Field Sales Representatives and Window Treatment Installers to ensure a seamless customer journey from sale to installation.

• Retail Partner Engagement: Building strong, collaborative relationships with big box retail staff to drive lead generation and program success.

• Direct Communication: Utilizing clear and respectful communication (Direct With Respect - DWR) with internal teams, retail partners, and customers.

• Team-Oriented: Contributing to the overall success of the Springs Window Fashions team by sharing insights and supporting collective goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's cultural behaviors are directly applicable to this role. A candidate who embodies these values—customer focus, ownership, innovation, speed, and integrity—will likely thrive in this environment. The emphasis on "One Team" and "Direct With Respect" highlights the importance of effective communication and collaboration.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Territory Management & Lead Generation: Consistently generating enough qualified leads and effectively managing time and travel within a designated territory.

• Customer Expectations: Setting and managing realistic customer expectations regarding product performance, installation timelines, and pricing.

• Competitive Landscape: Navigating a competitive market for window coverings and home improvement services.

• Adapting to New Products/Programs: Staying current with evolving product lines, promotional offers, and company programs.

• Performance Metrics: Meeting or exceeding sales targets and key performance indicators (KPIs) in a commission-driven environment.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Comprehensive Training Program: Newly designed program to equip associates with the necessary resources and tools for success in sales.

• Product Knowledge Deep Dives: In-depth training sessions covering a wide range of window covering products, materials, and applications.

• Sales & Consultation Skills: Development in consultative selling techniques, needs assessment, objection handling, and closing strategies.

• Retail Channel Engagement: Learning best practices for collaborating with and influencing retail partners.

• Career Path Exploration: Exposure to different roles within Springs Window Fashions, facilitating internal mobility and advancement.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents an excellent opportunity for individuals to hone their sales, customer service, and operational skills in a dynamic field environment. The challenges are typical of a sales role, but the company's investment in training and development provides a strong foundation for overcoming them and growing within the organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to conducting an in-home sales consultation from initial greeting to closing the sale." (Focus on process, customer needs assessment, solution presentation, and closing techniques.)

• "How would you build and maintain a strong working relationship with a big box retail store manager and their associates to drive leads for your program?" (Highlight communication, training, and partnership building.)

• "Imagine a customer is hesitant about the price of custom shutters. How would you address their objection while emphasizing the value and benefits?" (Prepare to discuss value-based selling, ROI, and feature-benefit articulation.)

• "How do you prioritize your daily tasks and manage your time when covering a designated sales territory with multiple appointments and potential walk-in leads?" (Focus on planning, organization, and efficiency.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What does 'The Best Experience Company' mean to you, and how would you embody this in your role as a Design Consultant?" (Connect personal values to company culture.)

• "How do you handle working in a high-pressure environment with detailed requirements and the need for meticulous accuracy?" (Demonstrate attention to detail and ability to manage stress.)

• "Our company values 'Ownership.' How have you demonstrated ownership in previous roles?" (Provide specific examples of taking responsibility and driving results.)

• "How do you stay motivated in a commission-based sales role, especially during slower periods?" (Discuss resilience, goal setting, and proactive lead generation.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Quantify Achievements: If possible, present examples of sales performance using metrics like conversion rates, average sale value, or lead follow-up success.

• Tell a Story: For sales consultations, describe the customer's initial need, your process of understanding it, the solution you proposed, and the successful outcome.

• Showcase Problem-Solving: Present a scenario where you faced a challenge (e.g., difficult measurement, customer objection) and how you resolved it effectively.

• Highlight Collaboration: If you have examples of working with teams or partners, describe how you contributed to a collective goal.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not only sales skills but also the ability to operate effectively in a field-based, customer-centric GTM role. Highlighting examples that align with the company's core values and cultural behaviors will be crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Springs Window Fashions careers portal.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight any relevant sales experience, customer service achievements, interior design interests, and proficiency with CRM and MS Office tools. Use keywords from the job description.

• Portfolio Preparation: Mentally prepare examples or a brief presentation showcasing your sales consultation process, ability to manage a territory, and customer service approach. Focus on quantifiable results where possible.

• Interview Practice: Rehearse answers to common sales and behavioral interview questions, preparing specific examples that demonstrate your skills and alignment with the company's values. Practice articulating your understanding of the "Best Experience Company" philosophy.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Springs Window Fashions' product lines, brand positioning, and the "Best Experience Company" tagline. Understand the dynamics of working with big box retailers.

⚠️ 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.

---