DESIGN_CONSULTANT

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: DESIGN_CONSULTANT

Company: Bassett Furniture

Location: Austin, Texas, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Sales & Design Consulting

Date Posted: May 18, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive revenue growth by providing expert interior design consultations and personalized sales experiences.

• Cultivate and maintain long-term customer relationships through exceptional service and a deep understanding of design principles.

• Leverage a passion for design and a strong sales acumen to exceed sales targets in a commissioned environment.

• Utilize a comprehensive understanding of furniture construction and current design trends to offer tailored solutions.

• Engage customers effectively, translating their needs, lifestyle, and budget into compelling design choices.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role, while titled "Design Consultant," is fundamentally a sales-driven position within a retail environment. The emphasis is on "relationship selling" and "commissioned sales," indicating a strong performance-based compensation structure. The "design" aspect serves as the primary vehicle for sales, requiring a blend of creative flair and business acumen.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth interior design consultations with clients to understand their aesthetic preferences, functional needs, and budgetary constraints.

• Develop and present customized product and design solutions, effectively showcasing Bassett Furniture's offerings.

• Utilize relationship selling techniques to build rapport and foster long-term client loyalty, aiming for repeat business and referrals.

• Drive sales performance by meeting and exceeding established sales goals within a commissioned compensation structure.

• Maintain a comprehensive knowledge of furniture construction, materials, design trends, and color coordination to provide expert advice.

• Coordinate and effectively present product and design solutions, including the ability to discern and combine colors and textures.

• Engage with customers through various channels, including in-showroom consultations, virtual appointments, and live chats.

• Travel to customers' residences and businesses to conduct on-site makeovers and design assessments.

• Collaborate with team members to ensure a cohesive and positive customer experience within the showroom environment.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a proactive sales approach, emphasizing consultative selling and a hands-on client engagement model that extends beyond the showroom. The requirement to travel for makeovers indicates a significant field-based component to the role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a background or strong interest in Interior Design, Merchandising, or a related creative field is highly beneficial. Bassett offers Interior Design certification training, suggesting a willingness to train motivated individuals.

Experience: Proven track record of success in sales, particularly in a commissioned environment, is essential. Experience in retail sales or customer-facing roles is a strong advantage.

Required Skills:

• Passion for interior design and home furnishings.

• Exceptional selling skills with a demonstrated ability to meet or exceed sales goals.

• Strong ability to discern and coordinate colors, textures, and design elements.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective client engagement.

• Friendly, outgoing, and approachable personality.

• Positive outlook and a proactive, self-motivated approach to clienteling.

• Proficiency in computer applications for sales, communication, and potentially design visualization.

• Ability to listen actively and translate customer desires into tangible design choices.

• Polished image and professional demeanor suitable for a premium retail brand.

• Career-minded professionalism and a dedication to continuous learning.

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

• Desire to work and thrive in a commissioned sales environment.

• Ability to be a supportive and collaborative team member.

• Capacity to perform effectively in a dynamic retail setting.

• Ability to travel to customer locations for design consultations and makeovers.

Preferred Skills:

• Previous experience in furniture sales or interior design consulting.

• Familiarity with design software or visualization tools.

• Experience in building and managing a personal client base.

• Strong understanding of furniture construction and materials.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of creative aptitude and sales drive. While formal design education isn't strictly required, a demonstrable passion and ability in design, coupled with a strong sales history, are critical for success. The emphasis on "clienteling" suggests a need for proactive customer outreach and relationship management.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase of successful sales achievements, quantifying results where possible (e.g., sales volume, client retention rates).

• Examples of design consultations, demonstrating the process from initial client needs assessment to final design solution.

• Visual examples of completed projects or design concepts, highlighting color coordination and aesthetic sensibilities.

• Documentation of how customer needs and preferences were translated into design recommendations.

Process Documentation:

• Illustrate the consultative sales process from initial customer engagement to closing the sale.

• Detail the methodology used for understanding customer lifestyles, tastes, and budgets.

• Demonstrate the process of creating and presenting customized product and design solutions.

• Explain how customer feedback is incorporated to refine design choices and ensure satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal "operations" portfolio isn't expected, candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their sales process, client management strategies, and design consultation methodology. This could be presented through case studies of successful sales cycles and design projects.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

The estimated annual income for experienced Bassett Design Consultants is $70,000 - $105,000, with top performers potentially earning up to $135,000+. This is based on a generous commission-based compensation plan, with additional bonus opportunities.

Benefits:

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

• Health, Dental, and Vision coverage.

• Disability insurance.

• Life Insurance.

• 401(k) retirement savings plan.

• Tuition assistance for further education.

• Paid Time Off (PTO).

• Generous Employee Discounts on Bassett Furniture products.

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

Working Hours:

The role requires flexibility to work weekends and holidays, typical for a retail environment. While specific daily hours are not detailed, the expectation is a full-time commitment necessary to meet sales targets and customer availability, likely involving standard retail operating hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The compensation structure is heavily commission-based, meaning income potential is directly tied to sales performance. The provided salary range reflects the expected earnings for individuals with 2-5 years of experience, with a clear upward trajectory for high achievers. The benefits package is comprehensive, supporting employee well-being and professional development.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Furniture Retail and Manufacturing. Bassett Furniture is a well-established American brand with a legacy dating back to 1902, known for quality custom furniture.

Company Size: Bassett Furniture Industries is a significant player in the furniture market, implying a structured corporate environment with established retail operations.

Founded: 1902. This long history signifies stability, deep-rooted expertise in furniture craftsmanship, and a strong brand heritage.

Team Structure:

• Design Consultants are part of the retail sales team within a specific showroom.

• They typically report to a Showroom Manager or Sales Manager.

• Collaboration is expected with fellow sales associates, design staff, and potentially showroom support personnel.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: Focus on building long-term relationships through personalized service and design consultations.

• Relationship Selling: Emphasis on understanding customer needs and providing solutions rather than just transactional sales.

• Data-Driven Sales Insights: While not explicitly stated as "operations," successful sales consultants likely use sales data and customer insights to refine their approach and identify opportunities.

• Continuous Learning: Commitment to ongoing training in product knowledge, sales techniques, and design skills.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Bassett Furniture prides itself on a blend of tradition and innovation. The culture likely values professionalism, customer dedication, and a passion for design. The long history suggests a stable work environment with opportunities for long-term career development.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an entry to mid-level sales and design position. It requires foundational sales skills and a passion for design, with a clear path for growth based on performance.

Reporting Structure: Design Consultants typically report to a Showroom Manager or Sales Manager, who oversees sales performance, team coordination, and customer service standards within the showroom.

Operations Impact: While not a traditional "operations" role, Design Consultants directly impact revenue through sales. Their ability to understand and meet customer needs influences customer satisfaction, repeat business, and brand loyalty, all critical to the company's financial health and market position.

Growth Opportunities:

• Sales Advancement: Progress to Senior Design Consultant, Showroom Manager, or Regional Sales Manager roles based on consistent sales performance and leadership potential.

• Design Specialization: Develop expertise in specific design styles or product categories, becoming a subject matter expert.

• Training & Certification: Utilize Bassett's Interior Design certification program to enhance professional credentials and service offerings.

• Management Track: Transition into sales management roles, leading a team of consultants, coaching, and driving overall showroom performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path is heavily tied to sales performance and demonstrated leadership potential. Bassett's commitment to training and development suggests a structured approach to employee growth, particularly for those who excel in their roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a retail showroom environment. Candidates will work directly within a state-of-the-art Bassett Furniture showroom.

Office Location(s): Austin, Texas. Specific showroom address details would be provided during the interview process.

Workspace Context:

• The primary workspace is the retail showroom floor, designed to be visually appealing and conducive to design consultations.

• It offers a collaborative atmosphere with fellow sales professionals and design staff.

• Access to product samples, design tools, and potentially digital design resources will be available.

• The environment is customer-facing, requiring constant interaction and engagement.

Work Schedule: Requires willingness to work weekends and holidays, aligning with typical retail operating hours. A full-time commitment is expected to maximize sales opportunities and client engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and customer-centric, requiring individuals who thrive in a retail setting and enjoy face-to-face client interaction. The showroom itself is a key asset, providing the backdrop for design consultations and sales.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and application to assess sales experience, design passion, and alignment with required qualifications.

• In-Person Interview: Likely involves meeting with the Showroom Manager or a senior sales leader. Questions will focus on sales philosophy, design approach, customer service experience, and motivation for joining Bassett.

• Design/Sales Challenge: Candidates may be asked to present a design concept, walk through a past sales success, or role-play a customer interaction to assess practical skills.

• Cultural Fit Assessment: Evaluation of personality, communication style, and enthusiasm to ensure alignment with Bassett's customer-focused and collaborative culture.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a regional manager or HR representative to finalize the offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Achievements: Be ready to discuss specific sales figures, growth percentages, or customer retention rates from previous roles.

• Showcase Design Process: Prepare to walk through examples of how you've assessed client needs, developed design solutions, and presented them. Use visual aids if possible (e.g., mood boards, sketches, photos of past projects).

• Highlight Relationship Building: Share anecdotes about how you've built lasting customer relationships and generated repeat business or referrals.

• Demonstrate Problem-Solving: Be ready to discuss challenging sales situations or design dilemmas you've overcome.

• Tailor to Bassett: Research Bassett's style and target market, and be prepared to articulate how your design aesthetic and sales approach align with the brand.

Challenge Preparation:

• Practice Sales Pitches: Prepare to present a product or a design solution compellingly.

• Develop Mini Design Concepts: Be ready to create a quick design concept for a hypothetical client based on a brief description.

• Articulate Your Sales Philosophy: Be clear on your approach to consultative selling and customer relationship management.

• Prepare Questions: Have thoughtful questions ready for the interviewer about the role, team, and company culture.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to assess both sales proficiency and design aptitude. Candidates should proactively prepare to demonstrate their skills through concrete examples and articulate their approach to client engagement and design problem-solving.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM System: Likely a proprietary or industry-standard CRM for managing customer interactions, sales pipelines, and clienteling. Proficiency in using CRM for lead tracking, customer history, and sales forecasting is beneficial.

• Point-of-Sale (POS) System: For processing sales transactions, managing orders, and inventory.

• Design Software/Tools: While not explicitly detailed, proficiency with interior design software, visualization tools, or even strong sketching abilities would be advantageous for creating and presenting design solutions. Bassett offers a "complimentary design service," implying tools are provided.

• Communication Platforms: Standard office suites, email, and potentially video conferencing tools for virtual appointments and internal communication.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales performance dashboards and reports to track individual and showroom sales metrics.

CRM & Automation:

• The CRM system will be key for automating follow-ups, managing client communications, and tracking sales progress.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific software names aren't listed, the role implies the need for proficiency in customer relationship management systems, sales transaction tools, and potentially design visualization software. A strong aptitude for learning new systems is important.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer satisfaction and building lasting relationships is paramount.

• Passion for Design: A genuine enthusiasm for interior design and home furnishings is a core value.

• Sales Excellence: Driving revenue and exceeding sales targets through effective selling techniques.

• Teamwork: Collaborating with colleagues to achieve showroom goals and provide a seamless customer experience.

• Professionalism: Maintaining a polished image and a high standard of conduct.

• Continuous Improvement: A willingness to learn and adapt to new design trends, sales strategies, and company processes.

Collaboration Style:

• Showroom Synergy: Working closely with other Design Consultants and showroom staff to share best practices and support each other's sales efforts.

• Customer Journey Focus: Ensuring smooth transitions for customers, from initial inquiry to design consultation and purchase.

• Feedback Integration: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback to enhance individual performance and team effectiveness.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at Bassett appears to foster a supportive sales environment where individual drive is complemented by team collaboration. The emphasis on design and customer relationships suggests a creative yet results-oriented atmosphere.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Commission-Based Income Fluctuation: Navigating the inherent variability of commission-based earnings requires resilience and consistent sales performance.

• High Sales Targets: Meeting ambitious sales goals in a competitive retail market.

• Balancing Design and Sales: Effectively integrating creative design solutions with the practicalities of customer budgets and sales objectives.

• Adapting to Trends: Staying current with evolving interior design trends and customer preferences.

• Managing Client Expectations: Effectively handling diverse client needs, tastes, and expectations.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Bassett Interior Design Certification: A significant opportunity to gain formal recognition and expertise in interior design.

• Product Knowledge Enhancement: Continuous learning about furniture construction, materials, and new product lines.

• Sales Skill Development: Ongoing training in consultative selling, negotiation, and closing techniques.

• Customer Relationship Management: Learning to build and leverage a strong client base for sustained success.

• Career Advancement: Clear pathways into senior sales roles, management, or specialized design positions within the company.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents challenges common to high-performance sales positions but also offers substantial growth and development opportunities, particularly through Bassett's unique design certification program.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Sales Approach: "Describe your sales philosophy. How do you approach building rapport and trust with clients?" (Be ready to discuss consultative selling, active listening, and needs assessment.)

• Design Passion: "What inspires your passion for interior design? How do you stay current with design trends?" (Prepare to talk about your design aesthetic and sources of inspiration.)

• Handling Objections: "How do you handle customer objections related to price, style, or delivery?" (Demonstrate problem-solving skills and resilience.)

• Closing Skills: "Describe a time you successfully closed a challenging sale. What steps did you take?" (Highlight your ability to guide a customer to a decision.)

• Clienteling: "How do you approach building and maintaining long-term customer relationships to generate repeat business?" (Emphasize proactive follow-up and personalized service.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in Bassett Furniture specifically?" (Show research into the company's history, values, and product offerings.)

• "How do you see yourself contributing to our showroom's success and team environment?" (Align your skills with the company's needs and collaborative culture.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Impact: If presenting a portfolio, emphasize the results achieved (e.g., sales closed, customer satisfaction, design impact).

• Tell a Story: For each project or sales success, walk the interviewer through the client's needs, your solution, and the positive outcome.

• Visual Appeal: Ensure any visual aids are professional and reflect your design sensibility.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present key highlights efficiently, respecting the interviewer's time.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of sales prowess, design creativity, and a customer-centric mindset. Highlighting past successes with quantifiable results and articulating a clear understanding of Bassett's brand and values will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this design consultant position:

• Submit your application through the provided Dayforce link.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight sales achievements, customer relationship management experience, and any relevant design skills or passion. Use keywords from the job description such as "relationship selling," "interior design," "sales goals," and "clienteling."

• Portfolio Preparation: Be ready to discuss specific examples of your sales successes and design consultations. If you have a visual portfolio (digital or physical), prepare to present key case studies demonstrating your process and results.

• Research Bassett: Familiarize yourself with Bassett Furniture's history, product lines, design aesthetic, and brand values. Understand their approach to customer service and custom furniture.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers to common sales and design interview questions, focusing on behavioral examples that showcase your skills and passion.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions based on the provided data. While every effort has been made to provide a comprehensive overview, candidates should verify all details directly with Bassett Furniture during the application and interview process.