DESIGN_CONSULTANT

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Consultant

Company: Bassett Furniture

Location: Friendswood, Texas, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Sales & Design Operations

Date Posted: April 27, 2026

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead customer engagement through personalized interior design consultations, driving sales within a retail showroom environment.

• Leverage a deep understanding of furniture construction, design trends, and color/texture coordination to create tailored customer solutions.

• Cultivate and maintain long-term client relationships using a consultative and "relationship selling" approach.

• Actively manage the sales cycle, from initial customer needs assessment to presenting and closing design solutions, aiming to exceed sales goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Design Consultant," the focus on sales goals, commission-based compensation, and driving revenue positions this role within the broader scope of Sales Operations, specifically focused on client-facing revenue generation and project management for custom furniture solutions. The "design" aspect is the primary sales driver.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth interior design consultations with customers, actively listening to understand their tastes, lifestyles, and budgetary constraints.

• Develop and present comprehensive product and design solutions, effectively translating customer needs into tangible design choices and furniture selections.

• Utilize a sophisticated understanding of color theory, texture, and material properties to create aesthetically pleasing and functional design proposals.

• Proactively manage customer relationships, fostering loyalty and repeat business through exceptional service and follow-through.

• Achieve and surpass individual sales targets and revenue goals through effective selling techniques and client acquisition/retention strategies.

• Perform virtual appointments and live chats to extend reach and accommodate diverse customer communication preferences.

• Drive sales by educating clients on furniture construction, design trends, and the customization options available through Bassett Furniture.

• Maintain a polished and professional image, reflecting the brand's commitment to quality and style.

• Collaborate with showroom teams to ensure a seamless customer experience and contribute to overall store performance.

• Willingness to travel to customers' residences and businesses for in-home design consultations and makeovers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core function is sales driven by design expertise. Responsibilities are heavily weighted towards client interaction, needs assessment, solution presentation, and closing sales, aligning with a revenue-generating sales operations role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a background or demonstrable aptitude in Interior Design, Merchandising, or a related creative field is highly advantageous. A strong understanding of design principles and visual aesthetics is critical.

Experience: Minimum of 2-5 years of proven sales experience, preferably in a commission-based retail or client-facing environment. Experience in interior design, home furnishings, or a related consultative sales role is strongly preferred.

Required Skills:

• A genuine passion for interior design and home furnishings.

• Exceptional sales acumen with a proven track record of meeting or exceeding sales goals.

• Strong ability to discern and coordinate colors, textures, and styles to create cohesive design schemes.

• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and active listening skills, essential for building rapport and understanding client needs.

• A friendly, outgoing, and positive personality conducive to customer interaction and relationship building.

• Self-motivation and a proactive approach to client acquisition and management.

• Proficiency in computer applications, including CRM systems (basic usage expected), email, and potentially design visualization tools.

• A strong desire to learn about products, design trends, and sales techniques.

• Ability to translate customer wants into practical and appealing design choices.

• Professionalism and a polished image suitable for representing a premium home furnishings brand.

• Ability to work weekends and holidays as required by retail operations.

Preferred Skills:

• Formal training or certification in Interior Design.

• Experience with virtual selling tools and conducting remote client consultations.

• Familiarity with furniture construction and material quality assessment.

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple client projects simultaneously.

• Proficiency in design software or visualization tools.

• Experience in a commissioned sales environment with income potential exceeding $100,000 annually.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills emphasize a blend of sales expertise, design sensibility, and customer service. The "2-5 years" experience level suggests a candidate who is beyond entry-level but still developing, aligning with mid-level revenue operations roles focused on execution and client management.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate successful sales outcomes through case studies showcasing client projects where design consultation led to significant purchases.

• Highlight examples of color and texture coordination, illustrating an understanding of aesthetic principles and their application in client solutions.

• Showcase instances of building and maintaining long-term customer relationships, potentially evidenced by repeat business or client testimonials.

Process Documentation:

• Outline your approach to conducting initial client consultations, detailing how you identify needs, preferences, and budget.

• Describe your methodology for translating client requirements into actionable design proposals and product recommendations.

• Detail your process for managing the sales cycle from initial contact through closing and post-sale follow-up.

• Provide examples of how you have leveraged customer feedback to refine design solutions or improve the sales process.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated as a formal portfolio requirement, the emphasis on "proven track record of success in sales" and the consultative nature of the role implies that candidates should be prepared to discuss their sales process and design approach. A portfolio demonstrating past successes, particularly in consultative sales or design, would be highly beneficial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated Base Salary: $35,000 - $50,000 annually (This is an estimate for a base salary component, often present in commission roles to provide a safety net, though not explicitly stated).

• Commission & Bonus Potential: $70,000 - $105,000 (average annual income)

• Top Performer Potential: Up to $135,000+ annually

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided income figures ($70,000-$105,000 average, up to $135,000+) are based on commission-driven sales. For a US location like Friendswood, TX, this range is competitive for experienced sales consultants in the home furnishings sector. The estimated base salary is inferred as typical for commission-based retail roles to support candidates during ramp-up or slower periods. Salary research for "Furniture Sales Consultant" or "Interior Design Sales" in the Houston/Friendswood, TX area supports this estimated range, considering factors like cost of living, industry benchmarks, and the commission structure.

Benefits:

• Paid training to develop product knowledge, sales techniques, and design skills.

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage.

• Disability insurance.

• Life insurance.

• 401(k) retirement savings plan.

• Tuition assistance for continued education and professional development.

• Paid time off (PTO) for vacation, sick days, and personal needs.

• Generous employee discounts on Bassett Furniture products.

• Opportunity to work in a state-of-the-art showroom.

Working Hours:

• Full-time, typically 40 hours per week.

• Requires willingness to work weekends and holidays, which are crucial periods for retail sales.

• Flexibility may be required for customer appointments outside of standard showroom hours, including potential travel to client sites.

📝 Enhancement Note: The working hours are typical for retail sales roles, emphasizing weekend and holiday availability. The mention of travel to customer sites indicates a need for flexibility beyond fixed showroom hours.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Retail (Home Furnishings)

Company Size: Bassett Furniture is a well-established company with a long history, likely falling into the mid-to-large enterprise category in terms of employee count and market presence. It has been in operation since 1902.

Founded: 1902. This deep heritage signifies stability, brand recognition, and a commitment to quality and craftsmanship.

Team Structure:

• Design Consultants typically work within a store showroom, reporting to a Store Manager or Showroom Manager.

• They are part of a sales team, often including other Design Consultants and potentially sales support staff.

Methodology:

• Bassett emphasizes "relationship selling" and a consultative approach, focusing on understanding individual customer needs.

• The company promotes a data-driven approach to sales performance, with consultants expected to track their progress against goals.

• Process optimization is encouraged through continuous learning and feedback, aiming to improve the customer experience and sales efficiency.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Bassett's culture is built on a blend of tradition and innovation. The emphasis on a long heritage suggests a stable work environment, while the focus on innovation in furniture retailing indicates a forward-thinking approach. The "relationship selling" model is key to understanding the team's collaborative and customer-centric approach.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a foundational to mid-level position within the sales and client engagement function, directly contributing to revenue generation. It's a "Design Consultant" role, emphasizing deep product and design knowledge used as a sales tool.

Reporting Structure: Design Consultants typically report to a Store Manager or Showroom Manager who oversees sales performance, team coordination, and operational efficiency within the retail space.

Operations Impact: The primary impact of this role is direct revenue generation through consultative sales. By effectively translating customer needs into sales, Design Consultants contribute significantly to the company's overall sales performance, customer satisfaction, and brand reputation within their local market. Their ability to build relationships also contributes to customer loyalty and repeat business.

Growth Opportunities:

• Sales Specialization: Advancement to Senior Design Consultant or Lead Designer roles, potentially with higher commission structures or specialized product/design focus.

• Management Track: Progression into Showroom Management or Store Management positions, overseeing sales teams and operational aspects of a retail location.

• Training & Development: Opportunities for ongoing product training, design skill enhancement, and potentially interior design certification through Bassett's programs.

• Regional Roles: Potential to move into regional sales support or training roles as experience grows.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path is clearly defined within retail sales and management, with opportunities to deepen design expertise or transition into leadership roles. The "operations" aspect is centered on the sales process and client management efficiency.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site, within a retail showroom environment. This is a customer-facing role.

Office Location(s): Friendswood, Texas, within a Bassett Furniture showroom.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is a professional retail showroom featuring Bassett's furniture collections, providing a visually stimulating and inspiring environment.

• Access to design tools, samples (fabrics, finishes), and potentially computer systems for order entry and design visualization.

• Opportunities for daily interaction with a team of sales professionals, managers, and customers.

Work Schedule:

• Full-time, typically 40 hours per week.

• Requires availability to work weekends and holidays, which are peak times for retail sales.

• The schedule will be structured to ensure showroom coverage and accommodate customer needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is a typical retail showroom, demanding a professional demeanor and the ability to thrive in a customer-centric setting. The emphasis on a "state-of-the-art showroom" suggests an updated and well-maintained workspace.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your application and resume to assess alignment with basic qualifications and experience.

• Phone/Video Interview: An initial conversation with a hiring manager to discuss your background, passion for design, sales experience, and understanding of the role.

• In-Person Interview/Audition: This may involve a more in-depth discussion, potentially a role-playing scenario demonstrating sales and design consultation skills, and a tour of the showroom. Candidates may be asked to present examples of their design work or sales successes.

• Final Interview/Assessment: Potentially a meeting with a senior manager or a panel interview to assess cultural fit and long-term potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Design Passion: Include examples of your interior design work, mood boards, or style concept presentations that highlight your aesthetic sensibilities and ability to coordinate colors and textures.

• Quantify Sales Success: If possible, include metrics or descriptions of sales achievements, demonstrating your ability to meet and exceed targets. Use specific examples of how you closed deals or grew client accounts.

• Highlight Relationship Building: Provide examples or testimonials that illustrate your strength in building and maintaining customer relationships.

• Tailor to Bassett: Research Bassett's style and product lines. Frame your examples to show how your skills and aesthetic align with the brand.

• Prepare to Discuss Process: Be ready to articulate your consultative sales process, from initial client engagement to closing and follow-up.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenario: Be prepared for a hypothetical client scenario where you'll need to propose design solutions based on given constraints (style, budget, space).

• Sales Pitch: Practice articulating the value proposition of Bassett Furniture and why a customer should choose your design services.

• Problem-Solving: Anticipate questions about handling difficult customers, overcoming objections, or managing challenging design projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal "portfolio" might not be a strict requirement listed, the nature of a design consultant role and the emphasis on sales success means candidates should be prepared to showcase their design aptitude and sales achievements through examples and discussions.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Point-of-Sale (POS) / Order Management System: For processing sales, managing customer orders, and tracking inventory.

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) System: For managing client information, tracking interactions, and nurturing leads. (e.g., Salesforce, or a proprietary system).

• Design Software/Visualization Tools: Potentially used for creating mood boards, 3D renderings, or space planning (e.g., SketchUp, AutoCAD LT, or specialized interior design software).

• Communication Tools: Email clients (Outlook, Gmail), internal messaging platforms (Slack, Teams), and video conferencing tools (Zoom, Google Meet) for virtual appointments.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales performance dashboards to track personal sales goals, conversion rates, and average transaction value.

CRM & Automation:

• Utilizing CRM for lead management, follow-ups, and customer segmentation.

• Basic automation for email follow-ups or appointment reminders might be employed.

📝 Enhancement Note: The specific CRM and design software are not listed, but proficiency in common retail sales and CRM systems is expected. The ability to adapt to proprietary systems is key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer-Centricity: A core value is placing the customer at the center of all interactions and decisions, aiming to create exceptional experiences.

• Passion for Design: A genuine enthusiasm for interior design, home furnishings, and helping customers create beautiful living spaces.

• Sales Excellence: A drive to achieve and exceed sales goals through consultative selling and relationship building.

• Teamwork: A commitment to supporting colleagues and contributing to the overall success of the showroom team.

• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding high standards of honesty, ethics, and professional conduct in all dealings.

• Continuous Improvement: A willingness to learn, adapt, and seek opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Collaboration Style:

• Collaborative within the sales team, sharing best practices and supporting each other to meet store-wide objectives.

• Close coordination with showroom management for guidance, feedback, and performance management.

• Interactions with other departments (e.g., customer service, logistics) to ensure seamless order fulfillment and customer satisfaction.

• A culture that encourages open communication and feedback to enhance sales processes and customer engagement strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture emphasizes a strong sales-driven environment where design is the key differentiator. Collaboration is expected to be functional, supporting the primary goal of driving sales and customer satisfaction.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Commission-Based Income: The primary challenge is the reliance on commission, requiring consistent performance to achieve desired income levels. Candidates need resilience and a strong work ethic.

• Managing Diverse Client Needs: Effectively catering to a wide range of customer tastes, budgets, and project complexities requires adaptability and strong problem-solving skills.

• Staying Ahead of Trends: The interior design and furniture industry is dynamic; consultants must continuously update their knowledge of trends, products, and design principles.

• Balancing Sales and Design: Effectively merging the consultative aspect of design with the demanding nature of achieving sales targets.

• Retail Hours: Working weekends and holidays can be challenging for work-life balance.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Bassett Interior Design Certification: A significant opportunity for professional development and skill enhancement.

• Product Knowledge Training: Ongoing training on Bassett's extensive product lines, construction, materials, and customization options.

• Sales Training: Development in consultative selling techniques, negotiation, and client relationship management.

• Industry Exposure: Learning from experienced designers and sales professionals within the company.

• Career Advancement: Clear pathways into senior sales roles or management positions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for high-performing retail sales roles, emphasizing personal drive and adaptability. The growth opportunities are substantial, particularly the unique offering of interior design certification.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you used your design skills to help a customer overcome a decorating challenge." (Assesses problem-solving and design application.)

• "How do you approach building rapport with a new client?" (Evaluates interpersonal skills and consultative selling.)

• "Walk me through your process for a typical interior design consultation." (Tests understanding of the sales cycle and client engagement.)

• "How do you stay updated on the latest interior design trends and furniture styles?" (Gauges commitment to continuous learning.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What specifically attracts you to Bassett Furniture and our brand?" (Tests research and cultural alignment.)

• "How do you handle working weekends and holidays?" (Assesses flexibility and understanding of retail demands.)

• "What does 'relationship selling' mean to you in the context of furniture sales?" (Evaluates understanding of the company's sales philosophy.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Highlight Impact: For any examples shared, focus on the outcome – how your design solution met the client's needs and resulted in a sale.

• Quantify Where Possible: If you have sales data or client feedback that demonstrates success, present it clearly.

• Visual Appeal: If presenting design work, ensure it is well-organized, visually appealing, and clearly communicates your design aesthetic.

• Storytelling: Frame your experiences as narratives that showcase your skills, problem-solving abilities, and passion for design and sales.

• Connect to Bassett: Explicitly link your skills and past successes to the requirements of the Design Consultant role at Bassett Furniture.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of design flair, robust sales skills, and a customer-centric, relationship-building approach, all aligned with Bassett's brand and values.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Consultant position:

• Submit your application through the provided Dayforce link, ensuring all sections are completed accurately.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your experience in sales, interior design, customer service, and any quantifiable achievements in revenue generation or client satisfaction. Use keywords from the job description such as "interior design," "sales goals," "relationship selling," and "color/texture coordination."

• Portfolio Preparation: Assemble a concise portfolio (digital or physical, as requested) showcasing your design projects, any sales success metrics, and examples of client interaction or problem-solving. Be ready to discuss your design process and sales methodology.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Bassett Furniture's history, brand aesthetic, product lines, and commitment to custom design. Understand their values and market position.

• Practice Responses: Prepare to articulate your passion for design, your sales approach, and how you envision contributing to the Bassett team in Friendswood, TX. Practice answering common interview questions related to sales, design, and customer service.

⚠️ 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.