50252 - DESIGN CONSULTANT at Bassett Furniture

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: 50252 - DESIGN CONSULTANT Company: Bassett Furniture Location: Orange, Connecticut, United States Job Type: Full-Time Category: Sales Operations / Retail Operations Date Posted: July 03, 2025 Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

This role focuses on leveraging interior design passion and sales acumen to drive revenue through personalized customer consultations and relationship selling, directly impacting store sales performance.
Design Consultants are pivotal in building and maintaining long-term customer relationships by providing expert advice on furniture construction, design trends, and coordinating colors and textures.
The position demands a proactive approach to client engagement, utilizing both in-store and virtual (online, live chat) methods to understand and fulfill customer needs, translating them into design solutions.
Success in this role is measured by exceeding sales goals, demonstrating a strong understanding of product offerings, and contributing to a positive and collaborative retail environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Design Consultant," the core responsibilities and emphasis on sales goals, customer relationship building, and driving revenue through consultations align it closely with a sales-centric retail operations role. The "operations" aspect comes from the structured approach to sales processes, customer management, and the use of company-provided training and tools to achieve business objectives. It can be considered a specialized function within retail operations that directly drives the top line.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

Proactively engage with customers in the showroom, during virtual appointments, and via live chat to identify their design needs, preferences, and budget constraints.
Conduct in-depth interior design consultations, utilizing knowledge of furniture construction, materials, finishes, and current design trends to propose tailored solutions.
Build and nurture a loyal client base through personalized follow-up, exceptional service, and by leveraging Bassett's complimentary design services.
Drive sales by effectively presenting product features, benefits, and design possibilities, and by skillfully navigating the sales process from initial contact to closing.
Coordinate color palettes, textures, and fabric selections to create cohesive and aesthetically pleasing room designs that meet customer expectations.
Maintain a polished image and professional demeanor at all times, reflecting the Bassett brand's commitment to quality and customer experience.
Actively participate in ongoing training and development programs to enhance product knowledge, sales techniques, and design skills.
Collaborate with team members to ensure a seamless customer experience and contribute to overall store performance and efficiency.
Travel to customers' residences or businesses for in-home or on-site design consultations and makeovers as needed.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of consultative sales and design expertise, emphasizing the "relationship selling" methodology. This implies a structured approach to customer engagement, needs assessment, solution presentation, and follow-up, which are core to effective sales operations in a retail context.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

A background or strong interest in Interior Design is highly valued, though formal certification is not strictly required, as training is provided.

Experience:

Proven track record of success in sales, demonstrating the ability to meet or exceed sales goals in a commissioned environment.
Experience in customer-facing roles, preferably within retail, design, or a related service industry, is beneficial.

Required Skills:

Passion for Interior Design: A genuine enthusiasm for home furnishings, color coordination, and creating aesthetically pleasing spaces.
Exceptional Selling Skills: Proven ability to drive sales, convert leads, and achieve revenue targets in a commission-based structure.
Strong Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Ability to articulate ideas clearly, actively listen to customer needs, and build rapport.
Customer Relationship Management: Skill in developing and maintaining long-term customer loyalty through personalized service and follow-up.
Color and Texture Coordination: Innate ability to discern and combine colors, fabrics, and materials effectively to create harmonious designs.
Self-Motivation & Drive: Proactive and goal-oriented, with a strong internal drive to succeed in a sales environment.
Computer Proficiency: Basic computer literacy for managing customer information, online interactions, and utilizing company systems.
Positive Outlook & Professionalism: A friendly, outgoing personality and a consistently positive attitude, coupled with a polished image and career-minded professionalism.
Adaptability: Ability to thrive in a varied-paced retail environment and adapt to different customer needs and situations.

Preferred Skills:

Interior Design Software Familiarity: Experience with design visualization tools or software is a plus.
Clientele Development: Demonstrated ability to proactively build and manage a personal client book.
Virtual Sales Acumen: Experience or comfort with conducting sales consultations and interactions online or via live chat.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills emphasize a blend of sales proficiency and design sensibility. For an entry-level role, the focus is on aptitude and attitude (passion, drive, communication) rather than extensive prior experience, supported by comprehensive company training. The "sales skills" and "customer relationship building" are key operational components for driving revenue.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

While a formal portfolio isn't explicitly requested, candidates are encouraged to showcase their understanding of design principles and sales success through their resume and interview.
Demonstrating an ability to translate customer "wants" into tangible design choices is a key performance indicator.
The company provides all necessary design tools and systems; therefore, prior experience with specialized design software is not a prerequisite but can be a differentiator.
Success in this role is measured by sales performance and customer satisfaction, which implicitly requires effective use of sales processes and customer management.

Process Documentation:

Candidates are expected to understand and follow established sales processes, including customer needs assessment, solution presentation, and closing techniques.
The company offers extensive training on its proprietary sales and design processes, emphasizing a structured approach to client engagement.
Performance will be tracked through sales metrics, requiring an understanding of how individual actions contribute to overall store performance and efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The absence of a mandatory portfolio requirement for this entry-level sales role suggests that the company prioritizes potential and trainability. However, candidates can proactively demonstrate their capabilities by referencing past sales achievements or design-related projects (even personal ones) during the interview. The emphasis is on understanding and executing company-defined sales processes.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Estimated Annual Income: $70,000 - $105,000+ (Commission-based, with potential for top performers to earn up to $135,000+/year).

Benefits:

Comprehensive Health Coverage: Health, Dental, and Vision insurance plans.
Income Protection: Disability and Life Insurance coverage.
Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with potential company match.
Professional Development: Paid training, tuition assistance, and the opportunity for Interior Design certification.
Work-Life Balance: Paid Time Off (PTO) for vacation, sick days, and personal time.
Employee Perks: Generous Employee Discounts on Bassett Furniture products.
Work Environment: Opportunity to work in a state-of-the-art showroom.
Career Advancement: Clear pathways for growth and advancement within the company.

Working Hours:

Full-time position, typically requiring flexibility to work weekends and holidays as dictated by retail operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The compensation structure is heavily commission-based, reflecting a performance-driven sales environment. The provided salary range of $70,000-$105,000+ is a strong indicator for entry-level to mid-level sales consultants in a retail setting, especially for a well-established brand like Bassett Furniture. The benefits package is competitive for the retail industry, supporting employee well-being and professional growth.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Furniture Retail / Home Furnishings. Bassett Furniture is a long-standing American brand, established in 1902, known for quality custom furniture and a blend of style, comfort, and value. Company Size: Bassett Furniture is a well-established company with a significant retail footprint and manufacturing capabilities, suggesting a structured corporate environment with opportunities for career development. Founded: 1902. This long history indicates stability, established brand recognition, and a deep understanding of the furniture market and customer needs.

Team Structure:

Design Consultants typically work within a store's sales team, reporting to a Store Manager or Sales Manager.
Collaboration is expected with other sales associates, design consultants, and potentially store support staff to ensure a cohesive customer experience.
Cross-functional interaction may occur with delivery teams or customer service departments to ensure fulfillment and satisfaction.

Methodology:

The company emphasizes "relationship selling" and utilizes a complimentary design service as a core sales tool.
Data-driven insights are likely used to track sales performance, customer engagement, and identify opportunities for improvement within the sales process.
Workflow planning involves managing individual client appointments, showroom floor presence, and follow-up activities to maximize sales opportunities.
Automation is likely minimal at the consultant level, with focus on direct client interaction and utilizing CRM for customer management.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Bassett's culture is built on a heritage of quality and customer service, combined with an eye towards innovation. The emphasis on training and development suggests a supportive environment for employees looking to build a career, particularly in a sales and design capacity. The "relationship selling" methodology implies a customer-centric approach that values long-term client engagement over transactional sales.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents an entry-level position within the sales and customer engagement function of retail operations. It serves as a foundation for developing core sales, client management, and design consultation skills.

Reporting Structure: Design Consultants typically report directly to a Store Manager or a Sales Manager within their assigned retail location. This structure provides direct oversight and coaching from experienced retail leadership.

Operations Impact: Design Consultants directly impact revenue generation through their sales performance. Their ability to build customer relationships, understand needs, and propose solutions directly influences store sales figures, customer satisfaction, and brand loyalty. Effective execution of sales processes contributes to the overall operational efficiency and profitability of the retail store.

Growth Opportunities:

Sales Specialization: Advance into senior Design Consultant roles, potentially with a focus on specific product lines or client segments.
Sales Leadership: Progress into management positions such as Assistant Store Manager, Sales Manager, or Store Manager, overseeing sales teams and store operations.
Design Expertise: Further develop design skills through company-provided certification and potentially move into specialized design roles within the company or related fields.
Cross-Functional Roles: Opportunities may arise in areas like visual merchandising, training, or customer service management within the retail network.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Design Consultant at Bassett Furniture is clearly defined within the retail sales structure. It offers a tangible route for individuals passionate about design and sales to build a career, with clear progression opportunities into leadership and specialized roles based on performance and development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The work environment is a modern, state-of-the-art retail showroom, designed to showcase furniture collections and provide an inspiring customer experience.

Office Location(s): The specific location for this role is Orange, Connecticut. Bassett Furniture operates numerous showrooms across the United States.

Workspace Context:

The showroom provides a dynamic and visually stimulating workspace, requiring consultants to be comfortable navigating and presenting within a retail setting.
Collaboration occurs organically on the showroom floor, with opportunities to learn from experienced colleagues and share insights on customer interactions.
Access to product samples, design resources, and potentially digital tools for visualization will be integral to the daily workspace.
The environment is customer-centric, demanding excellent presentation skills and a welcoming demeanor.

Work Schedule: Full-time, which typically includes weekends and holidays, essential for retail operations to cater to customer shopping habits. Flexibility is key to meeting operational demands and customer availability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "state-of-the-art showroom" implies a well-maintained and visually appealing workspace, which is crucial for a design-focused role. The emphasis on customer interaction and collaboration suggests a team-oriented, fast-paced retail atmosphere.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

Initial Screening: Likely involves a review of the resume and application, potentially followed by a brief phone screen to assess basic qualifications and interest.
In-Person Interview: Candidates will likely meet with the Store Manager or Sales Manager for a more in-depth discussion about their passion for design, sales experience, and customer service philosophy. This stage may include situational questions and behavioural assessments.
Skills Assessment/Role Play: Potentially include a scenario where candidates demonstrate their sales approach or design consultation skills, perhaps by presenting a hypothetical room design or handling a customer objection.
Final Interview: May involve meeting with additional management or team members to assess cultural fit and long-term potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

While a formal portfolio isn't a requirement, candidates can prepare by bringing examples of design projects (personal or professional), mood boards, or even a curated Pinterest board that showcases their design aesthetic and ability to coordinate colors and styles.
Be ready to articulate your design process and how you would approach a customer consultation.
Highlight any past sales achievements with quantifiable results (e.g., exceeding targets by X%, increasing customer retention by Y%).

Challenge Preparation:

Be prepared to discuss how you would handle common retail sales scenarios, such as dealing with indecisive customers, managing multiple client needs simultaneously, or overcoming price objections.
Research Bassett Furniture's product lines, design philosophy, and recent marketing campaigns to demonstrate genuine interest and understanding.
Think about how you would build long-term customer relationships and leverage Bassett's design services to drive repeat business.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely geared towards assessing a candidate's "fit" for a sales and design role, focusing on personality, communication skills, and a genuine passion for the industry, in addition to sales aptitude. Demonstrating initiative in preparing for these aspects, even without a formal portfolio requirement, can significantly enhance an application.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

CRM System: For managing customer interactions, tracking leads, and maintaining client relationship history. While not explicitly named, a CRM is standard for sales roles.
Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing orders, and handling payments.
Design Software/Tools: Bassett likely provides proprietary or industry-standard tools for creating design visualizations, selecting finishes, and presenting design concepts to clients. This could include CAD software, 3D rendering tools, or fabric/finish sample management systems.

Analytics & Reporting:

Sales Performance Dashboards: Used by management to track individual and store sales metrics, conversion rates, and customer acquisition costs. Consultants will be expected to understand their contribution to these metrics.
Customer Data Platforms: To segment customers and personalize outreach, though this may be managed at a higher operational level.

CRM & Automation:

Customer Relationship Management (CRM): Essential for tracking customer interactions, managing follow-ups, and nurturing leads.
Sales Automation Tools: May be used for automated email follow-ups or appointment reminders, though direct consultant involvement might be limited.
Integration Tools: Likely integrated with inventory management and order processing systems to ensure smooth transaction fulfillment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "computer proficiency" and "virtual appointments/live chats" suggests that familiarity with standard business software and online communication platforms is expected. While specific design software isn't listed as a requirement, proficiency with technology facilitating sales and client interaction is key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

Customer-Centricity: A strong focus on understanding and fulfilling customer needs, building lasting relationships, and ensuring satisfaction.
Sales Excellence: A commitment to achieving and exceeding sales targets through effective consultation, product knowledge, and persuasive selling.
Design Passion: Valuing creativity, aesthetic sensibility, and a keen eye for color and style in creating desirable living spaces for clients.
Teamwork & Collaboration: Fostering a supportive environment where team members work together to achieve collective store goals and provide a seamless customer experience.
Professionalism & Integrity: Maintaining a polished image, ethical conduct, and a results-oriented approach in all client interactions and business dealings.

Collaboration Style:

Showroom Collaboration: Consultants are expected to collaborate on the showroom floor, sharing insights, assisting colleagues, and ensuring all customers receive attention.
Process Adherence: Working within established sales and design processes to ensure consistency and efficiency across the team.
Feedback Exchange: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback to improve individual performance and team effectiveness.
Knowledge Sharing: Sharing product knowledge, design tips, and successful sales strategies with fellow team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: Bassett's culture likely blends the entrepreneurial spirit of sales with the collaborative nature of a retail team. The core values are geared towards driving sales through excellent customer service and design expertise, supported by teamwork and a commitment to quality.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

Commission-Based Income: The primary challenge is the reliance on commission for income, requiring consistent high performance to achieve financial goals.
Managing Diverse Needs: Effectively catering to a wide range of customer tastes, budgets, and design requirements simultaneously.
Market Competition: Differentiating Bassett's offerings and value proposition against competitors in the furniture market.
Dynamic Retail Environment: Adapting to changing trends, inventory fluctuations, and the fast-paced nature of retail operations.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Interior Design Certification: Opportunity to gain formal certification through Bassett's training programs, enhancing professional credentials.
Sales Skill Enhancement: Continuous learning in consultative selling techniques, negotiation, and customer relationship management.
Product Knowledge Expansion: Deepening understanding of furniture construction, materials, styles, and customization options.
Career Progression: Clear pathways for advancement into sales leadership or specialized roles within the company.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical of commission-based sales roles, emphasizing the need for resilience and a strong work ethic. The growth opportunities are substantial, offering a clear career trajectory for motivated individuals within the design and sales field.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

"How would you approach a new client who walks into the showroom? What are the first steps you'd take to understand their needs?" (Focus on active listening, open-ended questions, and building rapport.)
"Describe a time you had to persuade a customer to consider a design or product they initially weren't drawn to. What was your strategy, and what was the outcome?" (Highlight your sales and persuasion techniques, and ability to overcome objections.)
"How do you stay updated on interior design trends, and how would you apply this knowledge to help a customer create a stylish and functional space?" (Showcase your passion for design and ability to translate trends into practical client solutions.)
"What does 'relationship selling' mean to you, and how would you implement it at Bassett Furniture?" (Emphasize building trust, understanding long-term needs, and providing ongoing service.)

Company & Culture Questions:

"Why Bassett Furniture specifically? What about our brand and products appeals to you?" (Research the company's history, values, and product offerings.)
"How do you handle working in a team environment, and what role do you typically play?" (Demonstrate your collaborative spirit and ability to contribute positively to team goals.)
"Describe your experience with commissioned sales. How do you stay motivated and ensure consistent performance?" (Highlight your drive, goal-setting abilities, and resilience.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

If you have design-related projects (even personal ones), prepare to walk through your process: how you understood the client's needs, your design choices and rationale, and the final outcome.
Quantify your sales achievements whenever possible (e.g., "Exceeded sales targets by 15% in Q3," "Built a repeat customer base that accounted for 20% of my sales").
Be ready to discuss how you would use Bassett's complimentary design services as a tool to enhance customer relationships and drive sales.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of sales aptitude, design passion, and a customer-centric approach. Highlighting how your skills and values align with Bassett's culture and "relationship selling" methodology will be crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

Submit your application through the provided link on the Dayforce portal.
Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight relevant sales achievements, customer service experience, and any design-related skills or passions. Use keywords from the job description such as "sales goals," "customer relationships," "interior design," and "communication skills."
Portfolio Preparation (Optional but Recommended): Gather examples of your design work (personal projects, coursework, or past professional roles), focusing on how you coordinated colors, textures, and customer needs. Prepare to speak articulately about your design process and any sales accomplishments.
Company Research: Thoroughly research Bassett Furniture's history, product lines, design aesthetic, and company values. Understand their approach to customer service and "relationship selling."
Interview Practice: Prepare answers to common sales and customer service interview questions, focusing on demonstrating enthusiasm for design, strong communication skills, and a results-driven mindset. Practice articulating your sales process and how you would build client relationships.

⚠️ 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.

50252 - DESIGN CONSULTANT