50256 - DESIGN_CONSULTANT 8754 (CT/TX)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Consultant
Company: Bassett Furniture
Location: Westport, Connecticut, United States
Job Type: Full-Time
Category: Sales / Interior Design
Date Posted: July 28, 2025
Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 Years)
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on leveraging interior design passion and exceptional selling skills to build and nurture long-term customer relationships, driving sales within a retail environment.
• The Design Consultant will act as a trusted advisor, guiding clients through the design process from initial consultation to final product selection, ensuring customer satisfaction and repeat business.
• Key responsibilities include understanding customer needs, coordinating colors and textures, and presenting customized furniture and design solutions that align with client tastes and budgets.
• Success in this position requires a strong understanding of furniture construction, current design trends, and effective "relationship selling" techniques to maximize sales opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the role title is "Design Consultant," the core responsibilities and emphasis on sales goals, commission-based compensation, and customer relationship building firmly place this within a sales-focused, client-facing role within the retail operations sector, with a strong specialization in interior design. The "CT/TX" in the internal job code likely indicates flexibility or a need for candidates that could potentially be located in or support operations in Connecticut and Texas, though the primary posting is for Westport, CT.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive interior design consultations with customers to understand their aesthetic preferences, functional needs, and budget constraints.
• Utilize "relationship selling" methodologies to build rapport, trust, and long-term client relationships, leading to repeat business and referrals.
• Develop and present tailored furniture and design solutions, effectively coordinating colors, textures, and styles to meet customer requirements.
• Maintain in-depth knowledge of Bassett Furniture's product catalog, including furniture construction, materials, customization options, and current design trends.
• Actively pursue and achieve or exceed monthly, quarterly, and annual sales targets through proactive client engagement and effective sales closing techniques.
• Drive sales by leveraging Bassett's complimentary design services as a key tool for customer engagement and solution development.
• Maintain a strong understanding of design principles, color theory, and spatial planning to provide expert advice and create aesthetically pleasing room designs.
• Proactively manage a personal client base, engaging in follow-up communications, post-sale check-ins, and outreach for new collections or promotions.
• Collaborate with store management and team members to ensure a seamless customer experience and contribute to overall store sales performance.
• Contribute to visual merchandising efforts within the showroom to enhance product presentation and inspire customer design ideas.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of sales acumen, design expertise, and client management. The expectation to "drive to customers' residences and businesses for makeovers" and conduct "virtual appointments and live chats" indicates a multi-channel client engagement strategy, requiring adaptability and strong remote communication skills in addition to in-store presence.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• While no specific degree is mandated, a background or formal education in Interior Design, Merchandising, or a related field is highly advantageous for understanding design principles and client needs.

Experience:

• Proven track record of success in commissioned sales environments, demonstrating the ability to consistently meet or exceed sales targets.
• Experience in retail sales, specifically within home furnishings, interior design, or luxury goods, is preferred.
• Demonstrated experience in clienteling and building lasting customer relationships through personalized service.
• Previous experience in providing design consultations or project-based sales is a significant plus.

Required Skills:

• Passion for Interior Design: A genuine enthusiasm for home décor, furniture, and creating beautiful living spaces.
• Exceptional Selling Skills: Proven ability to engage customers, identify needs, present solutions, and close sales effectively in a commissioned environment.
• Customer Relationship Management: Skill in building rapport, trust, and long-term loyalty with clients through personalized interactions.
• Color and Texture Coordination: Ability to discern and effectively combine colors, fabrics, and materials to create harmonious and appealing design schemes.
• Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication, active listening, and the ability to connect with a diverse clientele.
• Self-Motivation & Drive: High level of initiative, a proactive approach to client outreach, and a strong desire to achieve sales goals.
• Computer Proficiency: Competence in using CRM systems, design software (if applicable), and general office productivity tools for client management and sales tracking.
• Professionalism & Polished Image: Maintaining a professional demeanor, presentation, and appearance suitable for a retail showroom and client interactions.
• Adaptability: Ability to thrive in a dynamic retail environment with varying customer traffic and needs, including the ability to conduct virtual and in-home consultations.

Preferred Skills:

• Interior Design Certification: Formal certification or training in interior design principles.
• Sales Analytics: Ability to interpret sales data and customer insights to refine sales strategies and improve performance.
• Time Management: Skill in balancing showroom responsibilities, client appointments, and follow-up activities effectively.
• Visual Merchandising: Understanding of showroom presentation and how to create inspiring displays.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "relationship selling," "clientele," and "career-minded professionalism" suggests that candidates with a consultative sales approach and a long-term career outlook in sales and design will be highly valued. The requirement for a "polished image" is a key differentiator for client-facing roles.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Sales Success Case Studies: Showcase examples of successful sales cycles, highlighting client engagement strategies, needs assessment, solution presentation, and closing techniques that led to significant revenue generation.
• Design Consultation Examples: Present visual examples of design projects, including mood boards, space planning sketches, 3D renderings (if applicable), and final room layouts that demonstrate an understanding of client needs and design principles.
• Clienteling Strategy Documentation: Provide evidence of how you develop and maintain client relationships, such as sample follow-up communications, loyalty program engagement, or strategies for re-engaging past clients.
• Performance Metrics: Quantifiable achievements such as sales volume, conversion rates, average transaction value, and client retention rates, presented clearly to demonstrate impact.

Process Documentation:

• Client Engagement Workflow: Outline the typical steps involved in taking a client from initial inquiry through consultation, design proposal, order placement, and post-sale follow-up.
• Sales Process Optimization: Demonstrate an understanding of how to refine the sales process to improve efficiency, enhance customer experience, and increase conversion rates, potentially including examples of A/B testing sales approaches or lead qualification enhancements.
• Product Knowledge Integration: Explain how you integrate and communicate detailed product knowledge, including construction, materials, and customization options, into the sales and design consultation process.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal "portfolio" in the traditional design sense might not be explicitly required for the application, the emphasis on "proven track record of success in sales," "creating, presenting, and selling product and design solutions," and the desire for "career-minded professionalism" implies that candidates should be prepared to articulate their sales process, showcase successful client interactions, and demonstrate their ability to drive results. Preparing examples of past successful sales scenarios and design consultations will be crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• The stated potential income for experienced Bassett Design Consultants averages $70,000-$105,000 per year, with top performers potentially earning up to $135,000 per year. This is a commission-based compensation plan, meaning income is directly tied to sales performance, with bonuses also available.
• 📝 Enhancement Note: This salary range is based on a commission structure, which is typical for high-performing sales roles in retail. The "potential income" figures provided are an estimate of what successful individuals can earn, rather than a guaranteed base salary. The actual base compensation structure is not specified but is likely minimal or non-existent, given the emphasis on commission. Researching typical commission structures in high-end furniture retail in the Connecticut area would provide further context.

Benefits:

• Paid Training: Comprehensive training programs designed to equip associates with product knowledge, sales techniques, and design skills.
• Health Benefits: Includes Health, Dental, and Vision coverage, providing a comprehensive benefits package for employees and their families.
• Disability Insurance: Offers financial protection in case of an inability to work due to illness or injury.
• Life Insurance: Provides a death benefit to beneficiaries.
• Retirement Savings: Access to a 401(k) plan for long-term financial planning.
• Educational Support: Tuition assistance is available, supporting professional development and continued learning.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Includes paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays, promoting work-life balance.
• Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on Bassett Furniture products, a significant perk for employees.
• Work Environment: Opportunity to work in a state-of-the-art showroom, enhancing the customer and employee experience.
• Career Advancement: Clear opportunities for growth and advancement within the company.

Working Hours:

• The role requires willingness to work weekends and holidays, which is standard for retail positions. Specific daily hours are not detailed but are expected to align with showroom operating hours and customer availability. A standard 40-hour work week is implied, with flexibility for peak times and client needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The benefits package is robust, covering health, financial security, and professional development, which are attractive components for sales professionals. The inclusion of "Tuition assistance" and "Opportunity for growth and advancement" highlights Bassett's commitment to employee development.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Home Furnishings Retail, Interior Design, Furniture Manufacturing. Bassett Furniture has a long-standing heritage in the American furniture market, known for quality, customization, and value. Company Size: While not explicitly stated in the provided data, Bassett Furniture is a well-established brand with a significant number of retail locations across the United States. This suggests a mid-to-large-sized organization with a structured corporate environment and a decentralized retail operational model. The presence of a dedicated training program and a comprehensive benefits package further indicates a company with established HR and operational infrastructure. Founded: 1902. This long history signifies stability, brand recognition, and a deep understanding of the furniture industry and customer preferences. The company's focus on innovation alongside its heritage suggests a culture that balances tradition with modern retail strategies.

Team Structure:

• Sales-Oriented Showroom Teams: Design Consultants typically work as part of a retail showroom team, reporting to a Store Manager or Showroom Manager. The team likely includes other Design Consultants, sales support staff, and potentially delivery/operations personnel.
• Reporting Structure: Direct reporting line to the Store Manager who oversees daily operations, sales performance, and team management.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaboration is expected with other sales associates, design specialists (if any), showroom managers, and potentially with corporate teams for marketing, product development, and customer service escalations. The role also involves interacting with customers directly, acting as a primary liaison between the company and the client.

Methodology:

• Relationship Selling: The core operational methodology for sales is "relationship selling," focusing on building rapport, understanding client needs deeply, and providing personalized design solutions.
• Data-Driven Clienteling: While not explicitly stated, successful sales professionals often leverage customer data (purchase history, preferences) to personalize outreach and sales strategies.
• Design Consultation Process: A structured approach to consultations, involving active listening, product knowledge integration, space planning, and solution presentation to drive sales.

Company Website: bassettfurniture.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Bassett's long history (since 1902) implies a stable work environment with established processes. The company's emphasis on "innovating furniture retailing" suggests a culture that is open to new ideas and approaches within the retail sales and design space. The "state-of-the-art showroom" points to investment in the physical retail experience.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents an entry-to-mid-level position within the retail sales and design operations of Bassett Furniture. It requires foundational sales skills and a passion for design, with significant opportunity for growth based on performance and demonstrated capabilities. It's a client-facing role focused on direct revenue generation.

Reporting Structure: The Design Consultant reports directly to the Store Manager or Showroom Manager. This manager is responsible for the overall performance of the showroom, including sales targets, staff management, and customer experience. The direct reporting line provides clear guidance and performance feedback.

Operations Impact: Design Consultants are critical to the company's revenue generation. Their ability to understand customer needs, offer compelling design solutions, and close sales directly impacts the company's top-line performance. By building strong customer relationships, they contribute to customer lifetime value and brand loyalty, which are key operational and strategic goals for a retail business.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Design Consultant/Sales Specialist: Progress to roles with higher sales targets, potentially specializing in specific product lines or client segments (e.g., commercial clients).
• Showroom Management: Opportunity to move into leadership roles such as Assistant Store Manager or Store Manager, overseeing daily operations, staff, and sales performance for an entire showroom.
• Design Training & Development: Potential to become a trainer or mentor for new Design Consultants, leveraging expertise in design and sales techniques.
• Corporate Roles: With significant experience and demonstrated success, opportunities may arise in corporate functions such as merchandising, sales training development, or product management.
• Cross-Regional Opportunities: Potential to relocate or take on responsibilities in different Bassett showrooms or regions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path is clearly defined within retail sales and management. The commission-based structure incentivizes high performance, which can accelerate career progression. The company's emphasis on training and development, including Interior Design certification, provides structured pathways for skill enhancement and advancement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The work environment is a retail showroom, specifically a state-of-the-art Bassett Furniture showroom. This implies a well-designed, customer-centric space that showcases the company's product lines. Office Location(s): Westport, Connecticut, United States. This location likely serves a discerning clientele, requiring a professional and upscale presentation.

Workspace Context:

• Customer-Facing Showroom: The primary workspace is the showroom floor, which requires constant engagement with customers. This environment is dynamic, interactive, and visually stimulating.
• Design Consultation Areas: Dedicated spaces within the showroom may be available for more in-depth design consultations, allowing for focused client interaction away from general foot traffic.
• Technology Integration: Associates will likely use point-of-sale (POS) systems, clienteling software, and potentially design visualization tools on computers or tablets.
• Team Interaction: Opportunities for collaboration and peer learning with other sales associates and management within the showroom. The atmosphere is expected to be team-oriented, focused on shared sales goals.

Work Schedule: The role requires flexibility, including a willingness to work weekends and holidays. This is typical for retail environments that cater to customer availability. While a 40-hour workweek is standard, peak periods or specific client appointments might necessitate adjusted hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "state-of-the-art showroom" suggests a modern and well-equipped retail space, which can enhance both the customer experience and the employee's ability to showcase products effectively. The need to work weekends and holidays is a key consideration for work-life balance.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely an online application followed by a phone screen with HR or a hiring manager to assess basic qualifications, interest, and culture fit.
• In-Person Interview: An interview at the showroom to meet the hiring manager, discuss experience, sales philosophy, and design passion. This stage may include a role-play scenario or a presentation of past design work (if available).
• Sales Simulation/Case Study: Candidates may be asked to demonstrate their sales approach, perhaps by role-playing a customer interaction or presenting a design solution for a hypothetical scenario.
• Final Interview: Potentially with a regional manager or senior leadership for final approval, focusing on career aspirations and long-term commitment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Sales Acumen: If you have a formal portfolio, ensure it highlights successful sales outcomes and quantifiable achievements (e.g., exceeding targets, average sale value).
• Visual Design Examples: Include high-quality images of past design projects (even personal ones if professional examples are limited) demonstrating your eye for color, space planning, and style.
• Clienteling Strategy: Be prepared to discuss how you build and maintain client relationships, perhaps by providing examples of follow-up communications or client engagement plans.
• Demonstrate Passion: Clearly articulate your passion for interior design and how it translates into effective sales strategies and customer satisfaction.
• Prepare for Role-Play: Practice common sales scenarios, such as handling objections, asking probing questions, and presenting solutions, focusing on the "relationship selling" approach.

Challenge Preparation:

• Sales Scenario: Be ready to walk through how you would approach a walk-in customer, identify their needs, and guide them through the showroom and design process.
• Design Problem-Solving: Prepare to discuss how you would handle a customer with specific design challenges (e.g., small space, unusual layout, conflicting preferences) and how you would present solutions using Bassett products.
• Objection Handling: Practice responding to common sales objections related to price, style, or delivery timelines, focusing on value and customer-centric solutions.
• Company Knowledge: Research Bassett's history, product lines, and design philosophy to demonstrate genuine interest and understanding.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily weigh sales capability and design aptitude. Candidates should be prepared to articulate their sales process and demonstrate their passion for design through concrete examples, ideally showcasing how they've driven sales and customer satisfaction in previous roles.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Point-of-Sale (POS) Systems: For processing transactions, managing sales orders, and inventory tracking.
• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software: To manage client information, track interactions, schedule follow-ups, and nurture leads. Bassett likely uses a proprietary or industry-standard CRM.
• Design Software/Tools: Potentially includes CAD software, 3D rendering tools (like SketchUp or specialized interior design software), or digital mood board creation tools to help visualize designs for clients.
• Product Catalog & Configuration Tools: Digital or physical resources for accessing detailed product information, specifications, and customization options.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Performance Dashboards: To track individual and team sales metrics, conversion rates, and attainment of sales targets.
• Client Data Analytics: Tools to analyze customer purchase history, preferences, and engagement patterns to inform sales strategies.

CRM & Automation:

• Clienteling Platforms: Tools used to manage customer interactions and build personalized relationships.
• Email Marketing/Communication Tools: For sending follow-up messages, promotional materials, and design inspiration to clients.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with CRM systems and general computer skills is explicitly mentioned. The ability to utilize design visualization tools would be a significant advantage, though not explicitly stated as a requirement. The focus is on tools that support sales, client management, and product presentation.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Centricity: A strong emphasis on understanding and meeting customer needs, providing exceptional service, and building lasting relationships.
• Sales Excellence: A drive to achieve and exceed sales goals through effective selling techniques, product knowledge, and client engagement.
• Design Passion: A genuine enthusiasm for interior design, aesthetics, and helping customers create their ideal living spaces.
• Teamwork & Collaboration: A supportive environment where team members work together to achieve common goals and contribute to the overall success of the showroom.
• Professionalism & Integrity: Maintaining high standards of conduct, communication, and ethical practice in all interactions.
• Continuous Learning: A commitment to ongoing development in product knowledge, design trends, and sales skills.

Collaboration Style:

• Client-Focused Collaboration: Working closely with clients to co-create design solutions, ensuring their vision is realized.
• Peer Support: Sharing best practices, insights, and customer information with fellow Design Consultants to foster a collective learning environment.
• Management Partnership: Collaborating with the Store Manager for guidance, feedback, and support in achieving sales targets and resolving client issues.
• Cross-Functional Interaction: Liaising with showroom support staff, delivery teams, and potentially corporate departments to ensure a seamless customer journey from sale to delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: Bassett's emphasis on "relationship selling" and "helping customers see their dream rooms become a reality" points to a collaborative and customer-focused culture. The value placed on "career-minded professionalism" suggests an environment that encourages personal and professional growth within the sales and design domain.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Commission-Based Income: The primary challenge is the reliance on commission for income, requiring consistent high performance and effective sales strategies to ensure stable earnings.
• Managing Client Expectations: Balancing customer desires with budget constraints and the practicalities of furniture selection and delivery can be challenging.
• Pacing in Retail: Thriving in a varied-paced retail environment, which can include busy weekends and slower weekdays, requires adaptability and effective time management.
• Keeping Up with Trends: Continuously learning about new design trends, product lines, and materials to remain a knowledgeable and effective consultant.
• Driving Foot Traffic/Leads: Proactively generating leads and encouraging customer visits to the showroom, especially in a competitive retail landscape.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Interior Design Certification Training: Bassett offers its own certification program, providing structured learning in design principles, color theory, and space planning.
• Product Knowledge Expansion: Continuous training on new collections, materials, and customization options ensures expertise in the full product range.
• Sales Technique Enhancement: Opportunities to refine sales skills, learn advanced clienteling strategies, and improve closing techniques through internal coaching and training.
• Mentorship from Management: Learning from experienced showroom managers who can provide guidance on sales strategy, customer service, and career development.
• Industry Exposure: Staying abreast of broader interior design trends through industry publications, trade shows (potentially), and online resources.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's investment in training, including the Interior Design certification, presents a significant opportunity for personal and professional growth, particularly for those looking to build a career in interior design sales. Overcoming the inherent challenge of commission-based income through strong sales performance is key to leveraging these opportunities.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Sales Philosophy: "Describe your approach to 'relationship selling' and how you build long-term customer loyalty." Be prepared to discuss your process for understanding client needs, offering solutions, and following up.
• Design Process: "Walk me through how you would typically handle a customer who walks into the showroom and expresses interest in a room makeover." Focus on your step-by-step approach from initial engagement to design proposal.
• Handling Objections: "How do you handle objections related to price, style, or delivery timelines?" Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully navigated these situations, emphasizing value and customer focus.
• Motivation & Goals: "What motivates you in a sales role, and how do you stay driven to meet and exceed sales goals, especially in a commission-based environment?"
• Problem-Solving: "Describe a time you had to resolve a complex customer issue or design challenge. What was your approach, and what was the outcome?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• Company Knowledge: "What do you know about Bassett Furniture, and why are you interested in working for us?" Research their history, values, and product offerings.
• Teamwork: "How do you contribute to a positive team environment in a retail setting?" Share examples of collaboration and support for colleagues.
• Adaptability: "How do you adapt to a fast-paced retail environment and varying customer needs?" Discuss your flexibility and ability to manage multiple tasks.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Quantify Achievements: If presenting a portfolio, focus on quantifiable results – sales figures, conversion rates, client retention metrics.
• Visual Storytelling: Use high-quality images for any design examples, showcasing your ability to create appealing and functional spaces.
• Process Clarity: Clearly articulate your sales and clienteling processes, highlighting how you ensure a positive customer experience.
• Enthusiasm & Passion: Convey your genuine passion for interior design and your excitement about helping customers transform their homes.
• Conciseness: Present your key successes and methodologies efficiently, respecting the interviewer's time.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview will likely assess not only sales skills but also design aptitude and cultural fit. Candidates should be prepared to articulate their passion for design, demonstrate a consultative sales approach, and showcase how they can contribute to the team's success in achieving sales targets.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Dayforce portal.
• Curate Your Sales & Design Highlights: Prepare to discuss specific examples of successful sales interactions, design consultations, and how you've built customer relationships. If you have design samples or project photos, have them readily accessible for discussion, even if not formally submitted as a portfolio.
• Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume highlights quantifiable sales achievements, experience in clienteling, any design-related education or experience, and strong communication skills. Use keywords like "sales," "design consultant," "clienteling," "customer relationship management," and "interior design."
• Practice Your "Elevator Pitch": Be ready to succinctly describe your passion for design, your sales approach, and why you'd be a great fit for Bassett Furniture in under two minutes.
• Research Bassett: Familiarize yourself with Bassett's product lines, design aesthetic, company history, and values to demonstrate genuine interest and understanding during the interview process.

⚠️ 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.