51700 - DESIGN CONSULTANT at Bassett Furniture

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: 51700 - DESIGN CONSULTANT Company: Bassett Furniture Location: Fredericksburg, Virginia, United States Job Type: Full-Time Category: Sales / Interior Design / Customer Relations Date Posted: August 06, 2025 Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

Drive in-store and virtual sales by leveraging interior design expertise and relationship selling techniques to build lasting customer relationships.
Achieve and exceed sales targets through comprehensive product knowledge, understanding of design trends, and personalized customer consultations.
Facilitate the customer's design journey from initial consultation to final product selection, ensuring a positive and inspiring experience.
Actively engage in continuous learning to stay abreast of furniture construction, design trends, and effective sales methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is fundamentally a sales position with a strong emphasis on interior design consultation and customer relationship management. The "Design Consultant" title highlights the consultative sales approach rather than a pure design role. The focus will be on driving revenue through personalized sales experiences.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

Conduct in-depth interior design consultations with customers, both in-store and virtually, to understand their needs, preferences, lifestyle, and budget.
Utilize comprehensive product knowledge, including furniture construction, materials, and current design trends, to provide expert recommendations.
Develop and present compelling product and design solutions that align with customer requirements, translating their wants into tangible design choices.
Build and maintain a robust client base through proactive engagement, follow-up, and by fostering long-term relationships.
Actively manage the sales process from initial contact and needs assessment through to closing the sale and ensuring customer satisfaction.
Drive sales performance by consistently meeting and exceeding individual sales goals and contributing to store-wide revenue targets.
Coordinate colors, textures, and styles to create harmonious and aesthetically pleasing design proposals for clients.
Assist customers in visualizing their ideal living spaces by effectively using the company's complimentary design services.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a consultative sales role focused on driving revenue through personalized design services. Responsibilities include active selling, client relationship management, and leveraging design expertise to close deals.

🎓 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. Experience: A minimum of 2-5 years of proven success in a sales-oriented role, preferably within retail, furniture, interior design, or a related customer-facing environment. Experience in a commissioned sales environment is a significant plus.

Required Skills:

Passion for Design: Demonstrated enthusiasm and a keen eye for interior design, color theory, and current trends.
Sales Acumen: Highly driven to meet or exceed sales goals, with a proven ability in relationship selling and closing techniques.
Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication, with the ability to connect with diverse clientele and build rapport quickly.
Customer Engagement: Adept at actively listening to customer needs and translating them into effective design and product solutions.
Color & Texture Coordination: Ability to discern and coordinate colors, textures, and styles to create cohesive design schemes.
Self-Motivation & Clienteling: Proactive approach to client engagement, lead generation, and building a personal client book.
Computer Proficiency: Comfortable using technology for virtual appointments, online communication, and basic computer operations.
Positive Attitude: A friendly, outgoing personality with a consistently positive outlook.
Polished Image & Professionalism: Maintaining a professional appearance and demeanor suitable for a retail design environment.

Preferred Skills:

Proven track record of success in commissioned sales environments.
Experience with virtual consultations and digital selling tools.
Knowledge of furniture construction and materials.
Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented retail setting.
Willingness to travel to customer residences for in-home consultations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of sales drive, design sensibility, and strong interpersonal skills. While formal education isn't explicitly required, a demonstrable passion for design and proven sales success are critical. The "2-5 years" experience level is inferred from the typical career path for such consultative sales roles.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

Sales Success Showcase: Examples of sales achievements, ideally quantifiable, demonstrating your ability to meet or exceed targets in previous roles. This could include metrics on sales volume, conversion rates, or average transaction value.
Design Consultation Examples: Visual documentation of design projects or consultations, showcasing your ability to understand client needs and translate them into design solutions. This could include mood boards, space plans, or before-and-after visuals.
Client Relationship Management: Evidence of how you've built and maintained customer relationships, such as testimonials, customer feedback examples, or descriptions of clienteling strategies.
Process Improvement Snapshots: While not a formal operations role, demonstrating an understanding of efficient sales processes or how you improved your personal sales workflow can be beneficial.

Process Documentation:

Sales Workflow Design: Candidates are expected to understand and articulate their personal sales process, from initial customer engagement to closing and post-sale follow-up.
Clienteling Strategy: Ability to describe methods for nurturing leads, managing customer interactions, and building repeat business.
Performance Measurement: Understanding of key sales metrics and how to track personal performance against goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this is not a traditional Revenue Operations or Sales Operations role, demonstrating a structured approach to sales, client management, and personal performance tracking will be advantageous. The "portfolio" here is more about showcasing sales success and design capability rather than formal process documentation.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The estimated annual compensation for an experienced Bassett Design Consultant is between $70,000 to $105,000. Top performers can earn up to $135,000 annually. This range is based on a commission-plus-bonus structure where income is directly tied to sales performance.

Benefits:

Paid Training: Comprehensive training programs provided to equip associates with product knowledge, sales techniques, and design skills.
Health Coverage: Access to Health, Dental, and Vision insurance plans.
Insurance: Disability and Life Insurance policies are included.
Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with potential company contributions.
Educational Support: Tuition assistance program available for further professional development.
Paid Time Off: Accrued paid time off for vacation, sick days, and personal needs.
Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on Bassett Furniture products.
Work Environment: Opportunity to work in a modern, state-of-the-art showroom.
Career Advancement: Clear pathways for growth and advancement within the company.

Working Hours: Full-time commitment, typically involving 40 hours per week, with a requirement to work weekends and holidays as dictated by retail operational needs. Flexibility to accommodate customer appointments and sales activities is expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary is primarily commission-based, with a significant earning potential for high performers. The provided range ($70,000-$105,000) is an average potential, with top performers exceeding this. This is typical for commissioned sales roles in the furniture and home decor industry.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Furniture Retail / Home Furnishings. Bassett Furniture has a long-standing heritage in the American market, known for its quality, craftsmanship, and custom furniture options since 1902. Company Size: Bassett Furniture is a well-established company with a significant retail footprint. While specific current employee numbers aren't provided, a company with a national presence and over a century of operation implies a medium to large organization. This size often means structured training programs and defined career paths, but also a need for individual initiative to stand out. Founded: 1902, providing over a century of experience and brand recognition in the furniture industry.

Team Structure:

Design Consultants typically operate within a retail store environment, forming a sales team led by a Store Manager or Showroom Manager.
The reporting structure is usually direct to the Store Manager, who oversees daily operations, sales performance, and staff development.
Collaboration is frequent with fellow Design Consultants for shared client insights, design advice, and supporting overall store traffic engagement. There's also interaction with store support staff (e.g., delivery coordinators, administrative personnel).

Methodology:

Customer-Centric Sales: The primary methodology revolves around building strong customer relationships and providing personalized design consultations to drive sales.
Relationship Selling: Emphasis is placed on understanding customer needs deeply and acting as a trusted advisor rather than just a product pusher.
Data-Informed Decisions: While not explicitly stated for this role, successful sales professionals leverage customer data (preferences, purchase history) and sales performance metrics to refine their approach.
Process Adherence: Following established sales processes, utilizing design tools, and adhering to company policies for customer service and transactions.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Bassett's culture likely balances its long heritage with a focus on innovation in furniture retailing. The emphasis on "relationship selling" and personalized design suggests a customer-centric approach, where individual consultants are empowered to build their client base.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a mid-level within a sales and customer-facing career track. It requires a blend of sales proficiency, design sensibility, and client management skills. It's a direct contributor role focused on revenue generation. Reporting Structure: Design Consultants report directly to a Store Manager or Showroom Manager. This manager is responsible for sales performance, team management, and operational oversight of the retail location. Operations Impact: The primary impact of this role is directly on the company's revenue and profitability through sales transactions. By building strong customer relationships and providing excellent design services, Design Consultants contribute to customer loyalty, repeat business, and positive brand perception.

Growth Opportunities:

Senior Design Consultant: Advancement to a senior role with potentially higher commission rates, mentorship responsibilities, or specialized product expertise.
Sales Management: Progression into roles like Assistant Store Manager or Store Manager, focusing on leading sales teams and managing retail operations.
Design Specialization: Opportunities to become a certified interior designer through Bassett's training programs, leading to more complex design projects or showroom specialization.
Corporate Roles: Potential to move into corporate positions related to sales training, merchandising, or product development, leveraging their front-line retail experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path emphasizes growth within the sales and retail management framework, with opportunities to specialize in design or move into leadership. The company's commitment to training and development supports these advancement possibilities.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The primary work environment is a retail showroom, specifically a Bassett Furniture store. These showrooms are designed to be attractive, inspirational spaces showcasing a wide range of furniture and design possibilities. Office Location(s): The role is located in Fredericksburg, VA. Bassett Furniture operates numerous showrooms across the United States.

Workspace Context:

Collaborative Showroom: Work alongside other Design Consultants and store staff in a shared sales environment.
Customer-Facing: Constant interaction with customers on the showroom floor, in consultation areas, and potentially at their homes.
Product Immersion: Surrounded by a diverse inventory of furniture, fabrics, and accessories, providing a stimulating design environment.
Technology Integration: Use of POS systems, CRM tools, and potentially design visualization software.

Work Schedule: A full-time schedule, typically 40 hours per week. This will include working weekends and holidays, as these are peak times for retail sales. Flexibility is key to accommodate customer needs and sales targets.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and customer-centric, requiring adaptability and a strong presence on the showroom floor. The need to work weekends and holidays is standard for retail sales roles.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

Initial Screening: A review of your application and resume by HR or a hiring manager to assess qualifications and experience.
First Interview: Likely a behavioral and skills-based interview, possibly with the Store Manager, focusing on your passion for design, sales experience, and customer service approach. Be prepared to discuss your sales philosophy and how you handle client interactions.
Skills Assessment/Case Study: You might be asked to present a design concept for a hypothetical client or discuss how you would approach a specific sales scenario. This is where demonstrating your design eye and problem-solving skills is crucial.
Final Interview: Potentially with a regional manager or a senior member of the sales team, focusing on overall fit, long-term potential, and alignment with company values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

Quantify Achievements: For sales roles, numbers speak volumes. Highlight your sales performance, conversion rates, and customer retention statistics.
Showcase Design Thinking: Present examples of your design work, even if it's personal projects, to illustrate your aesthetic, color sense, and ability to create cohesive spaces. Use visuals like mood boards, sketches, or before-and-after photos.
Client Testimonials: If available, include positive feedback or testimonials from past clients to demonstrate your customer relationship skills.
Tailor to Bassett: Research Bassett's style and product lines. Show how your design sensibilities align with the brand, and how you would apply their complimentary design service effectively.
Professional Presentation: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and easy to navigate, whether digital or physical.

Challenge Preparation:

Design Scenario: Be ready to walk through how you would handle a customer walking into the showroom who is unsure of what they want but has a general idea of style.
Sales Pitch: Practice articulating the value proposition of Bassett Furniture and its design services.
Objection Handling: Prepare for common sales objections (e.g., price, style, delivery) and how you would professionally address them.
Product Knowledge: Familiarize yourself with Bassett's product categories and customization options.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely focus heavily on assessing sales ability, design intuition, and customer engagement skills. A strong portfolio that showcases both sales success and design capability will be key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

CRM System: Used for managing customer interactions, tracking leads, and maintaining client databases. Proficiency in a CRM is essential for clienteling.
Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing orders, and inventory tracking.
Design Visualization Software/Tools: While not explicitly named, companies often use software for creating mood boards, space plans, or 3D renderings to help customers visualize designs.
Computer & Internet: For communication, research, virtual appointments, and accessing online training modules.

Analytics & Reporting:

Sales Performance Dashboards: Used to track individual and store sales metrics, commission earnings, and performance against targets.
Customer Data Analysis: Utilizing CRM data to understand customer preferences and purchasing habits.

CRM & Automation:

Customer Relationship Management (CRM): Essential for building and managing client relationships, tracking sales cycles, and personalizing customer interactions.
Communication Platforms: Email, phone, and potentially chat or video conferencing tools for virtual consultations and customer support.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tools aren't listed, a strong understanding of CRM systems for clienteling and sales tracking is implied. Familiarity with retail POS systems and potentially design software would be advantageous.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

Customer Focus: A deep commitment to understanding and fulfilling customer needs, ensuring satisfaction and loyalty.
Design Excellence: Valuing aesthetics, creativity, and the ability to translate customer visions into beautiful, functional spaces.
Sales Drive: A culture that encourages ambition, goal achievement, and a proactive approach to revenue generation.
Teamwork & Collaboration: Supporting colleagues, sharing knowledge, and contributing to a positive and productive showroom environment.
Professionalism: Maintaining high standards of personal presentation, communication, and ethical conduct.
Continuous Improvement: A willingness to learn, adapt to new trends, and refine sales and design techniques.

Collaboration Style:

Cross-functional within Showroom: Regular interaction with fellow sales consultants and store management for shared goals and customer support.
Knowledge Sharing: Expectation to share insights on design trends, successful sales strategies, and customer feedback with the team.
Mutual Support: A collaborative environment where team members may assist each other with customer consultations or showroom tasks to ensure smooth operations and excellent customer experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: Bassett's culture likely emphasizes a blend of sales achievement and a passion for design, underpinned by strong customer service values. Teamwork is crucial in a retail showroom setting to ensure a positive customer experience.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

Commission-Based Income: The primary challenge is the variable nature of commission-based pay, requiring consistent sales performance to achieve desired income levels.
Market Competition: The furniture and interior design market is competitive, requiring standing out through superior service and design expertise.
Customer Variability: Dealing with a wide range of customer needs, budgets, and decision-making processes can be challenging.
Balancing Sales & Design: Effectively merging the consultative aspect of design with the direct goal of closing sales requires a specific skill set.
Weekend/Holiday Work: Adapting to a work schedule that includes weekends and holidays is a common retail challenge.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Interior Design Certification: Bassett offers internal training and certification, providing a structured path to enhance design skills and credibility.
Sales Technique Training: Continuous development in sales methodologies, negotiation, and customer relationship management.
Product Knowledge Expansion: Deepening understanding of furniture construction, materials, customization options, and design trends.
Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from experienced Design Consultants and Store Managers.
Career Progression: Clear pathways to advance into senior sales roles or management positions within Bassett Furniture.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers significant growth potential for those driven by sales and design, with the primary challenge being the attainment of consistent sales performance in a commission structure.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

Design Philosophy: "Describe your approach to interior design and how you discover a client's personal style." Be ready to discuss your process for understanding client needs and translating them into design solutions.
Sales Approach: "How do you build rapport with customers and handle objections in a sales environment?" Prepare examples of your relationship selling techniques and how you overcome common sales hurdles.
Problem-Solving: "Imagine a customer is undecided between two fabric options for a sofa. How would you guide them to a decision?" Focus on your ability to analyze needs, explain pros and cons, and facilitate a confident choice.
Company Alignment: "Why Bassett Furniture, and how do your skills align with our brand and values?" Research Bassett's history, product lines, and design aesthetic to articulate your fit.
Team Dynamics: "How do you contribute to a positive team environment in a retail setting?" Share examples of your collaborative spirit and how you support colleagues.
Performance Metrics: "How do you track your own sales performance, and what metrics are most important to you?" Be prepared to discuss your understanding of sales KPIs and how you use them to drive results.

Company & Culture Questions:

Be prepared to discuss your understanding of Bassett's brand reputation, commitment to quality, and custom furniture offerings.
Research the company's history and values to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural fit.
Understand the role of the "complimentary design service" and how you would leverage it.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

Showcase Sales Success: Lead with quantifiable achievements. If you have sales figures, conversion rates, or average ticket sizes, present them clearly.
Visual Design Examples: Use high-quality images for any design projects. Organize them logically, perhaps by project type or by demonstrating a design process.
Narrative for Each Piece: For each sales or design example, briefly explain the context, the challenge, your solution, and the outcome (quantifiable if possible).
Client Focus: Highlight any examples of exceptional customer service or relationship building.
Conciseness: Keep your presentation focused and concise, making it easy for interviewers to grasp your key strengths.

Challenge Preparation:

Mock Consultation: Be ready to engage in a simulated customer interaction where you assess needs and suggest products.
Sales Pitch: Practice a brief, compelling pitch about why a customer should choose Bassett and your services.
Product Knowledge Application: Demonstrate how you would use your product knowledge to answer customer questions about quality, materials, or customization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong sales aptitude, a genuine passion for interior design, excellent customer service skills, and an understanding of how to drive revenue in a retail environment.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

Submit your completed application through the provided link on the Dayforce portal.
Portfolio Customization: Prepare a concise portfolio that highlights your sales achievements (quantified with metrics like sales volume, conversion rates) and showcases your design sensibility through project examples (mood boards, sketches, before/after photos).
Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your sales experience, customer service skills, and any design-related background. Use keywords like "sales consultant," "interior design," "relationship selling," "clienteling," and "commission sales."
Interview Practice: Practice answering behavioral and situational interview questions related to sales, customer service, and design. Rehearse your approach to a mock customer consultation and be ready to articulate your sales process.
Company Research: Thoroughly research Bassett Furniture's brand, product offerings, and customer service philosophy. Understand their unique selling propositions, such as their custom furniture options and complimentary design services, to tailor your responses.

⚠️ 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.

51700 - DESIGN CONSULTANT