50614 - DESIGN_CONSULTANT 8754 (CT/TX)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Consultant Company: Bassett Furniture Location: El Paso, Texas, United States Job Type: Full-Time Category: Sales / Design Operations Date Posted: August 26, 2025 Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Engage with customers to understand their design needs, lifestyle, and budget, translating these into effective furniture and design solutions.
• Leverage strong relationship selling techniques to build and maintain a loyal client base, fostering long-term customer loyalty and repeat business.
• Utilize a deep understanding of furniture construction, design trends, and color coordination to provide expert consultations and personalized recommendations.
• Drive personal sales performance to consistently meet or exceed sales goals within a commissioned sales environment.
• Collaborate with team members to create a positive and productive retail showroom atmosphere, contributing to overall store success.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Design Consultant," the core responsibilities and emphasis on sales goals, client building, and commission-based compensation clearly position this role within a sales operations framework, specifically focused on driving revenue through consultative selling in a retail environment. The "operations" aspect lies in the systematic approach to client engagement, sales process management, and utilizing design as a tool for revenue generation.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth interior design consultations with clients, actively listening to identify their aesthetic preferences, functional needs, and investment parameters.
• Develop and present comprehensive product and design solutions, including space planning, fabric selection, and furniture arrangement, to meet customer requirements.
• Drive sales performance by effectively closing deals, managing the sales funnel, and following up with clients to ensure satisfaction and encourage future business.
• Maintain a high level of product knowledge, staying current with furniture construction, materials, design trends, and customizable options offered by Bassett Furniture.
• Build and nurture a personal client book through proactive outreach, follow-up, and exceptional customer service, aiming for sustained client engagement and referrals.
• Utilize virtual appointment tools and live chat functionalities to extend reach and provide convenient consultation services to a broader customer base.
• Participate in and contribute to team sales goals and showroom initiatives, fostering a collaborative and supportive sales environment.
• Manage client interactions and sales activities effectively, ensuring accurate order entry and timely communication throughout the sales cycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a proactive, client-centric approach to sales, requiring strong consultative skills and a deep understanding of the product catalog. The role requires managing a sales pipeline and client relationships, which are key functions within sales operations, albeit executed directly by the sales consultant.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: A degree or certification in Interior Design, Merchandising, or a related field is highly beneficial but not strictly required if compensated by proven sales and design experience. Experience: A minimum of 2-5 years of proven success in a sales role, preferably within retail, home furnishings, or a design-adjacent industry, demonstrating a track record of meeting or exceeding sales targets.

Required Skills:

• Passion for interior design and a strong eye for color, texture, and style coordination.
• Exceptional communication, active listening, and interpersonal skills to effectively build rapport and trust with customers.
• Proven ability to drive sales and achieve revenue targets in a commissioned environment.
• Self-motivation and a proactive approach to client acquisition, relationship management, and lead generation.
• Proficiency in basic computer applications, including email, web browsing, and potentially CRM or sales software.
• A positive, outgoing personality and a polished, professional image suitable for a high-end retail environment.
• Ability to translate customer needs and preferences into actionable design solutions and product recommendations.
• Commitment to continuous learning and professional development within the design and sales fields.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with customer relationship management (CRM) systems for tracking client interactions and sales progress.
• Familiarity with design software or visualization tools that can aid in presenting design concepts.
• Existing client base or network within the local El Paso community that can be leveraged for business development.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team-oriented, collaborative sales environment.
• Experience in a commission-based sales structure, understanding the direct correlation between effort and reward.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills highlight a blend of sales acumen and design sensibility. The emphasis on "relationship selling," "clientele," and "sales goals" points towards a role where operational efficiency in client management and sales process execution is critical for success. The "career-minded professionalism" suggests an expectation of long-term commitment and development.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly requested, candidates are encouraged to highlight past successes in sales and design, demonstrating their ability to:
  • Showcase successful client engagements and how their design solutions met customer needs.
  • Illustrate instances of exceeding sales targets through effective consultation and closing techniques.
  • Provide examples of how they have built and maintained strong customer relationships.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of how to leverage design services to drive revenue.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their personal sales process, including:
  • Methods for initial customer engagement and needs assessment.
  • Strategies for presenting design solutions and overcoming objections.
  • Techniques for closing sales and securing customer commitment.
  • Approaches to post-sale follow-up and client relationship nurturing.
  • How they track their progress and manage their client pipeline.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a sales-focused role like this, the "portfolio" would likely translate to a strong resume showcasing sales achievements and the ability to articulate a personal sales and client management process during interviews. The emphasis is on practical application and demonstrable results in sales and customer engagement.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The estimated annual income for experienced Bassett Design Consultants ranges from $70,000 to $105,000, with top performers potentially earning up to $135,000 per year. This is a commission-based compensation plan with potential bonus opportunities.

Benefits:

• Paid training to equip associates with essential product and sales knowledge.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage for employees and potentially their dependents.
• Disability insurance to provide financial support in case of inability to work due to illness or injury.
• Life insurance to offer financial security for beneficiaries.
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with potential company matching contributions.
• Tuition assistance programs to support continued education and professional development.
• Paid time off (PTO) for vacation, personal time, and sick leave.
• Generous employee discounts on Bassett Furniture products.
• Opportunity to work in a modern and well-equipped retail showroom.
• Clear pathways for career growth and advancement within the organization.

Working Hours: Standard retail hours are expected, including willingness to work weekends and holidays to accommodate customer needs. The role is typically full-time, implying approximately 40 hours per week, with flexibility based on showroom traffic and client appointment schedules.

📝 Enhancement Note: The compensation structure is heavily performance-driven, aligning with sales operations objectives. The provided salary range is based on the company's stated potential earnings for experienced consultants, reflecting a typical commission-based sales model common in the furniture retail industry. The benefits package is comprehensive, supporting employee well-being and professional growth.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Furniture Retail and Manufacturing. Bassett Furniture has a long-standing heritage in the industry, founded in 1902, known for quality custom furniture and a blend of style, comfort, and value. Company Size: Bassett Furniture Industries is a publicly traded company with multiple showrooms and manufacturing facilities, indicating a medium-to-large enterprise structure. This size suggests established processes and opportunities for structured career development. Founded: 1902. This long history implies stability, established brand recognition, and a deep understanding of the furniture market and consumer needs.

Team Structure:

• The Design Consultant will be part of the El Paso showroom sales team.
• The team likely includes a Showroom Manager or Sales Manager who oversees sales performance and operations.
• Collaboration with other Design Consultants, design specialists, and potentially support staff (e.g., administrative or delivery coordinators) is expected.
• Cross-functional interaction will also occur with merchandising, marketing, and operations teams at a broader company level.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: Sales performance metrics, customer feedback, and market trends are likely used to inform sales strategies and product offerings.
• Workflow Planning & Optimization: Creating efficient processes for client consultations, order management, and follow-up is key to maximizing productivity and sales.
• Automation & Efficiency Practices: While not explicitly detailed, leveraging technology for client communication, scheduling, and potentially design visualization contributes to operational efficiency.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's heritage and focus on quality custom furniture suggest a culture that values craftsmanship, customer service, and long-term relationships. The size of the company offers a balance between established corporate structures and the potential for individual impact within a sales team.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is an entry-to-mid-level position within the sales and customer engagement function, often considered a foundational role for those interested in retail management, design consulting, or sales leadership. It requires developing proficiency in sales processes, client management, and product expertise. Reporting Structure: Typically, a Design Consultant reports to a Showroom Manager or Sales Manager who oversees daily operations, sales performance, and team development. This manager provides guidance, coaching, and performance feedback. Operations Impact: The direct impact of this role on operations is through driving revenue and contributing to the overall sales performance of the El Paso showroom. By successfully converting leads into sales and building customer loyalty, the consultant directly influences the company's financial results and market presence. Effective client management also contributes to operational efficiency by minimizing errors and ensuring smooth order fulfillment.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Progression can involve taking on more complex design projects, leading client makeover initiatives, or mentoring new consultants.
• Sales Leadership: Opportunities may arise to move into roles such as Senior Design Consultant, Sales Team Lead, Assistant Showroom Manager, or Showroom Manager, focusing on team performance and operational oversight.
• Specialization: Development into a specialist in specific product lines, design styles, or client segments (e.g., contract sales) is also possible.
• Formal Training: Bassett offers Interior Design certification training, providing a structured path for skill enhancement and career advancement within the design field.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path clearly indicates opportunities to move from individual contributor to leadership roles, emphasizing the operational aspects of managing sales teams and showroom performance. The provided training programs are a key element for career development within the company's operational structure.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The work environment is a retail showroom, designed to showcase furniture and create an appealing atmosphere for customers. It will be a state-of-the-art showroom, implying a modern, well-designed, and customer-focused space. Office Location(s): El Paso, Texas. The specific location within El Paso will influence commute times and local market dynamics.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The showroom is a shared space where Design Consultants work alongside colleagues, fostering a team-oriented atmosphere for client service and sales support.
• Tools & Technology: Associates will have access to showroom resources, design tools, and computer systems for managing client interactions and sales. This includes capabilities for virtual appointments and live chats.
• Team Interaction: Regular interaction with team members and management is expected for training, sales meetings, and collaborative problem-solving to enhance the customer experience and sales outcomes.

Work Schedule: The schedule will be customer-driven, requiring flexibility to work weekends and holidays. This means the work schedule will likely rotate among team members to ensure showroom coverage, typical for retail operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The showroom environment is central to the role, requiring professionals to be comfortable in a customer-facing, sales-driven setting. The "state-of-the-art showroom" suggests an investment in the physical workspace to support sales operations and customer engagement.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely an HR or recruiter screening to assess basic qualifications, enthusiasm for design, and sales aptitude.
• In-Person Interview/Audition: This will involve meeting with the Showroom Manager or a senior sales team member. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their sales approach, design philosophy, and how they handle customer interactions. Expect scenario-based questions related to sales and design challenges.
• Portfolio Showcase (Informal): While not a formal portfolio requirement, be ready to discuss past successes, client examples, or even bring visual aids (e.g., mood boards, design sketches) if relevant to demonstrate capabilities.
• Cultural Fit Assessment: The interview will also evaluate how well the candidate fits with the company culture, team dynamics, and the brand's emphasis on customer relationships and professionalism.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Sales Achievements: Quantify successes whenever possible (e.g., "Exceeded sales targets by 15% for three consecutive quarters," "Grew client base by 20% through proactive outreach").
• Showcase Design Thinking: Be prepared to articulate your design process, from initial client consultation to final solution presentation. Discuss how you consider client lifestyle, budget, and aesthetic preferences.
• Demonstrate Relationship Building: Share examples of how you've built strong customer relationships, managed client expectations, and handled challenging customer situations effectively.
• Focus on Results: Frame your experience around the outcomes you've achieved for clients and the business, emphasizing how your design skills contributed to sales success.

Challenge Preparation:

• Sales Scenario Role-Playing: Prepare for scenarios where you might need to handle a difficult customer, present a design solution, or close a sale. Practice articulating your value proposition clearly and persuasively.
• Design Problem-Solving: Be ready to discuss how you would approach a hypothetical client design challenge, demonstrating your thought process and ability to integrate product knowledge with client needs.
• Time Management: Understand that in a retail sales environment, time is critical. Be prepared to discuss how you manage your schedule, prioritize tasks, and balance multiple client interactions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process emphasizes practical sales skills, design thinking, and cultural fit. Candidates should prepare to demonstrate their ability to execute the sales process effectively and articulate their contributions to revenue generation and customer satisfaction.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM System: Likely a customer relationship management system (e.g., Salesforce, or a proprietary system) for tracking leads, customer interactions, sales opportunities, and client history. Proficiency in managing customer data and sales pipelines is essential.
• Point of Sale (POS) / Order Management System: Used for processing sales transactions, managing customer orders, and potentially inventory lookups.
• Design Software/Visualization Tools: May include tools for creating mood boards, 2D/3D room layouts, or virtual renderings to help clients visualize design solutions. Bassett may provide proprietary tools or recommend industry standards.
• Communication Platforms: Email, phone systems, and potentially internal messaging or collaboration tools (e.g., Slack, Microsoft Teams) for team communication.
• Virtual Appointment Tools: Software for conducting remote consultations and live chats with clients.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Performance Dashboards: Access to reports and dashboards showing individual sales performance, conversion rates, average transaction value, and client acquisition metrics.
• Product Performance Data: Understanding which products and design solutions are most popular or profitable.

CRM & Automation:

• Client Database Management: Maintaining accurate and up-to-date client information within the CRM.
• Sales Workflow Automation: Potentially utilizing automated follow-up sequences or email marketing for client engagement.
• System Integration: Understanding how various sales and customer management systems might connect to provide a seamless customer experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tools aren't named, the role requires proficiency in systems that support sales, client management, and customer engagement. The emphasis on virtual appointments and live chats indicates a need for comfort with digital communication and sales tools.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer-Centricity: A primary value is placing the customer at the heart of every interaction, ensuring a positive and memorable design and purchasing experience.
• Sales Excellence: A strong emphasis on achieving and exceeding sales goals through professional selling techniques and a deep understanding of customer needs.
• Collaboration: Working effectively as part of a team to support colleagues, share best practices, and contribute to the overall success of the showroom.
• Continuous Improvement: A commitment to learning, developing skills, and adapting to new design trends and sales strategies to enhance performance.
• Professionalism: Maintaining a high standard of personal presentation, communication, and ethical conduct in all interactions.

Collaboration Style:

• Team Selling Support: Consultants are expected to support each other, share insights on customer preferences, and assist with showroom coverage or client needs when necessary.
• Cross-Functional Interaction: Collaborating with showroom management on sales strategies, performance reviews, and operational improvements.
• Knowledge Sharing: Participating in team meetings and training sessions to share knowledge about products, design trends, and successful sales techniques.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture values proactive engagement, results-driven performance, and a collaborative approach to achieving sales objectives. The emphasis on customer relationships and continuous learning are key cultural drivers that shape daily operations and individual contributions.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Commission-Based Income Fluctuation: The primary challenge is managing income variability inherent in a commission-only sales structure, requiring consistent high performance.
• Meeting Sales Targets: Consistently meeting or exceeding demanding sales goals in a competitive retail environment requires strong sales skills, client management, and resilience.
• Adapting to Design Trends: Staying current with evolving interior design trends, color palettes, and product offerings to provide relevant and inspiring solutions to diverse clientele.
• Balancing Multiple Roles: Effectively managing client consultations, sales processes, administrative tasks, and showroom responsibilities simultaneously.
• Driving Foot Traffic/Lead Generation: While the showroom attracts customers, proactive client acquisition and lead generation are crucial for maximizing sales opportunities.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Interior Design Certification: Bassett offers formal training and certification in interior design, providing a structured path to enhance design expertise.
• Sales Skill Enhancement: Ongoing training in consultative selling, negotiation, and customer relationship management techniques.
• Product Knowledge Expansion: Deepening understanding of furniture construction, materials, customization options, and the entire Bassett product catalog.
• Mentorship and Coaching: Opportunities to learn from experienced sales managers and top-performing consultants within the organization.
• Career Advancement: Potential pathways to management roles, specialized design positions, or other opportunities within the broader Bassett Furniture organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for high-performing sales roles in retail. The growth opportunities are significant, particularly the formal design training, which provides a clear career development trajectory within the operations of a design-focused retail business.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Sales Strategy: "Describe your approach to building a client base and generating repeat business in a retail sales environment." Prepare to discuss lead generation, client nurturing, and follow-up strategies.
• Design Consultation Process: "Walk me through how you would conduct an interior design consultation for a new client. What information would you seek, and how would you present solutions?" Focus on active listening and problem-solving.
• Handling Objections/Challenges: "How do you handle customer objections related to price, style, or delivery timelines?" Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully navigated these situations.
• Company & Culture Fit: "Why Bassett Furniture? What interests you about our brand and this role specifically?" Research Bassett's history, values, and product offerings.
• Team Dynamics: "Describe your ideal team environment and how you contribute to team success." Emphasize collaboration and a positive attitude.
• Measuring Success: "How do you measure your own success as a sales professional? What metrics are most important to you?" Discuss sales targets, client satisfaction, and relationship growth.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Research Bassett's mission, values, product lines, and history. Understand their commitment to quality, custom furniture, and customer service.
• Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with the company's emphasis on design passion, customer relationships, and professionalism.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Quantify Achievements: If discussing past sales roles, use numbers to illustrate your success (e.g., "Achieved 110% of sales quota in Q3").
• Showcase Design Process: Be ready to explain your approach to design challenges, how you select products, and how you ensure client satisfaction.
• Highlight Relationship Building: Share anecdotes about building rapport with clients, understanding their needs, and providing exceptional service.
• Focus on Impact: Connect your skills and experiences to how they would benefit Bassett Furniture and its customers.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of sales expertise, design acumen, customer service orientation, and a proactive, results-driven mindset. Articulating a clear process for sales and client management is key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Dayforce portal.
• Portfolio Customization: While not a formal portfolio, tailor your resume to highlight sales achievements, design-related experience, customer service examples, and any quantifiable results. Use keywords from the job description such as "design," "sales," "customer relationships," and "consultation."
• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your experience in sales, customer interaction, and any design-related skills. Quantify achievements where possible, focusing on sales targets met or exceeded and successful client relationship building.
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your sales process, design approach, and how you build customer relationships. Be ready to discuss your motivation for joining Bassett and how you align with their values. Prepare specific examples to answer behavioral and situational interview questions.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research Bassett Furniture's brand, product offerings, history, and customer base. Understand their competitive landscape and what makes them unique in the furniture industry. This will help you demonstrate genuine interest and cultural fit.

⚠️ 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.

---