700 - Designers - RE-Design Consultant - Exempt

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: 700 - Designers - RE-Design Consultant - Exempt

Company: Ethan Allen Global Inc

Location: Florida, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Interior Design & Sales Operations

Date Posted: March 21, 2026

Experience Level: Entry-Level to Mid-Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on driving sales through expert interior design consultation, space planning, and product selection within an Ethan Allen Design Center.

• Key responsibilities include client relationship management, achieving sales targets, and leveraging digital and grassroots marketing strategies to grow business.

• The position requires a blend of creative design skills, effective sales techniques, and proficiency in utilizing company-provided technology and social media platforms.

• Successful candidates will contribute to both individual sales goals and the overall success of the Design Center, embodying the Ethan Allen brand.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title suggests "Design Consultant," the detailed responsibilities and compensation structure clearly indicate a sales-driven role with a strong interior design component. This is crucial for candidates to understand, as it bridges creative design with direct revenue generation. The "Exempt" status suggests this is a salaried position, though the compensation is heavily commission-based.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and present individualized interior design solutions, encompassing space planning, fabric coordination, and product selection, to meet customer preferences and budget constraints.

• Proactively engage with customers in the Design Center, establishing rapport, and scheduling appointments for in-home consultations to assess needs and close sales.

• Execute grassroots marketing and leverage diverse social media platforms to cultivate new business opportunities and expand clientele.

• Educate clients on Ethan Allen's complimentary design services and available financing options, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of offerings.

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of current design and color trends to propose fashionable and relevant design solutions.

• Coordinate with the Design Center team to provide seamless customer service throughout the sales cycle, including order status updates and managing any potential delays.

• Actively participate in corporate-sponsored marketing and training programs to enhance skills and brand representation.

• Contribute to the development and maintenance of the Design Center's portfolio, showcasing successful projects and design capabilities.

• Utilize corporate systems and technology, including 3D Room Planners and CRM, to optimize project design, presentation creation, and client relationship management.

• Process customer orders accurately using the retail point-of-sale (POS) system.

• Maintain a neat, organized, and professional presentation of the Design Center's showroom space.

• Collaborate with the Design Center Leader and fellow Design Consultants to develop and implement business and marketing plans aimed at increasing market reach and exceeding sales goals.

• Employ interactive technologies, social media, and networking strategies to build and nurture relationships with prospective and current clients.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a proactive, business-development approach, integrating sales targets with design expertise. The mention of "grassroots marketing" and "social media" points towards an expectation of independent lead generation beyond walk-in traffic.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Minimum High School Diploma or equivalent.

Experience:

• Minimum of one (1) year of practical interior design experience.

Required Skills:

• Broad knowledge of interior design principles, styles, and color theory.

• Effective sales techniques and a strong ability to close deals.

• Excellent listening, oral, and written communication skills.

• Proficiency in utilizing social media platforms (e.g., Facebook, Instagram) for business development and brand promotion.

• Ability to conduct in-home consultations and space planning.

• Competency in using digital floor planning technology, preferably 3D applications.

• Experience with interactive visualization tools (e.g., augmented reality, virtual reality).

• Ability to learn and adapt to new technologies quickly.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with CRM systems for client management and sales tracking.

• Familiarity with retail point-of-sale (POS) systems.

• Demonstrated success in developing a book of business through independent marketing efforts.

• Experience with specific Ethan Allen design software or similar industry tools.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2 years" experience level suggests that while practical interior design experience is required, extensive professional backgrounds may not be necessary, making this an attractive role for early-career professionals transitioning into sales-oriented design. The emphasis on social media and digital tools indicates a modern approach to client acquisition.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated portfolio showcasing a range of interior design projects, demonstrating space planning capabilities, fabric coordination, and product selection.

• Visual examples of successful client consultations, including before-and-after transformations or comprehensive design concepts.

• Documentation of how design solutions translated into sales and client satisfaction.

Process Documentation:

• Examples of how you manage the client consultation process from initial contact to project completion.

• Case studies illustrating your approach to understanding client needs, budget management, and presenting design solutions.

• Demonstrations of how you track and manage sales opportunities and client interactions (e.g., through CRM or similar systems).

• Evidence of using technology to enhance the design and sales process.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated as a formal "portfolio requirement" in the listing, the nature of a design and sales role necessitates a visual and process-oriented demonstration of capabilities. Candidates should prepare to showcase their design work and sales process, particularly how they leverage technology and client interaction. This is crucial for demonstrating the "project development" and "technical skills" performance categories mentioned.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Recoverable Draw: $30,000 - $70,000 annually, based on written sales.

• Potential Income: $70,000 - $115,000 annually for experienced consultants.

Benefits:

• 401(k) plan with employer contributions.

• Multiple Medical Plans with Prescription Drug Coverage.

• Health Savings Account (HSA) with employer contributions.

• Dental Plan.

• Vision Plan.

• Basic Group Term Life & Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance.

• Supplemental Group Term Life & AD&D Insurance.

• Dependent Group Term Life Insurance.

• Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance.

• Business Travel Accident Life Insurance.

• Flexible Spending Accounts (Health Care & Dependent Care).

• Commuter Saving Plans (Public Transit & Parking).

• Voluntary Whole Life Insurance.

• Voluntary Critical Care Insurance.

• Voluntary Accident Insurance.

Working Hours:

• Full-Time position, typically 40 hours per week, with flexibility expected to meet client needs and sales objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The compensation structure is a key element: a "recoverable draw" means the base is earned against commissions. This is a common model in sales roles, especially in retail and design, where initial earnings might be lower until sales volume increases. The significant earning potential for top performers highlights the commission-driven nature of the role and the opportunity for high achievers. The extensive benefits package is a strong draw for full-time employees.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Furniture Retail & Interior Design

Company Size: Large (Ethan Allen Global Inc. employs over 5,000 people globally, with a significant retail footprint).

Founded: 1932 (Over 90 years of profitable operation).

Company Description: Ethan Allen is a leading interior design destination and premium furniture retailer, recognized for its quality craftsmanship and complimentary design services. The company blends advanced technology with personalized client interactions, manufacturing a substantial portion of its products in North American workshops.

Team Structure:

• Design Consultants operate within a Design Center environment, likely reporting to a Design Center Leader or Design Sales Leader.

• Collaboration is expected with other Design Consultants and support staff to ensure a high level of customer service.

Methodology:

• Emphasizes a client-centric approach, combining personalized design consultation with sales-driven outcomes.

• Integrates technology (3D Room Planner, CRM, visualization tools) to enhance the design and sales process.

• Utilizes both traditional and digital marketing strategies (grassroots, social media) for business development.

• Focuses on performance metrics and benchmarks to drive individual and team success.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's long history and commitment to North American manufacturing suggest a culture valuing quality, craftsmanship, and long-term relationships. The emphasis on "associates as brand ambassadors" points to a customer service-oriented environment. The "75% custom-crafted products" detail underscores the importance of personalized client solutions.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at an entry-level to mid-level within a sales and design context. It serves as a foundational role for individuals looking to build a career in interior design sales and client relationship management.

Reporting Structure: Design Consultants typically report to a Design Center Leader or Sales Manager who oversees the performance and development of the sales team within a specific location.

Operations Impact: While not a traditional "operations" role focused on internal processes, this position directly impacts the company's revenue stream through sales generation. The effectiveness of the Design Consultant in converting leads and closing deals is critical to the financial health of the Design Center and Ethan Allen as a whole. Their ability to manage projects and client satisfaction also influences brand reputation and repeat business.

Growth Opportunities:

• Sales Specialization: Advance to Senior Design Consultant or specialize in high-value client segments (e.g., trade programs, luxury markets).

• Leadership Path: Progress into management roles such as Design Center Leader, Sales Manager, or Showroom Manager, overseeing teams and driving overall sales performance.

• Design Expertise: Deepen specialization in specific design areas or product lines, becoming a subject matter expert.

• Business Development: Develop advanced client acquisition and relationship management skills, potentially leading to roles focused on market expansion or strategic partnerships.

• Training and Mentorship: Opportunities to mentor new consultants and contribute to training programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role provides a clear pathway for growth from an individual contributor focused on sales and design to leadership positions. The "Re-Design Consultant" aspect of the title might imply opportunities for existing consultants to refine their skills or take on new challenges within design projects. The income potential for top performers suggests that success in this role is highly rewarded.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Ethan Allen operates Design Centers, which are showroom-style retail environments designed to showcase furniture and decor. These spaces are typically customer-facing, elegant, and designed for inspiration and consultation.

Office Location(s): The job is located in Florida, United States. Ethan Allen has multiple Design Centers across the US, and specific location details would be provided during the application process.

Workspace Context:

• The primary workspace is the Design Center showroom, requiring a professional and aesthetically pleasing presentation.

• A significant portion of the work involves direct client interaction, both in the showroom and during in-home consultations.

• Access to design tools, technology (3D Room Planner, CRM, POS systems), and product samples is essential.

• The environment is customer-focused, often fast-paced, and requires adaptability to client needs and project demands.

Work Schedule:

• This is a Full-Time position, generally requiring approximately 40 hours per week.

• Flexibility is expected to accommodate client appointments, which may include evenings and weekends, common in retail and design sales roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement means candidates must be comfortable working in a physical retail showroom and conducting client visits outside the office. The emphasis on a "neat and orderly design center projection" indicates a standard of presentation expected from all team members.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess basic qualifications, experience, and alignment with the role's requirements.

2. First Interview (Phone/Video): An interview with an HR representative or hiring manager to discuss your background, motivations, and understanding of the role. This stage will likely explore your design philosophy, sales aptitude, and familiarity with relevant tools.

3. In-Person Interview/Assessment: This may involve a more in-depth discussion at a Design Center, potentially including:

• A presentation of your design portfolio, showcasing your best work and explaining your process.
• A scenario-based assessment or role-playing exercise to evaluate your sales and client consultation skills.
• A tour of the Design Center and interaction with the team.
• Discussion of performance benchmarks and compensation structure.

1. Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader, to confirm cultural fit and finalize hiring decisions.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your strongest projects that best represent your skills in space planning, product selection, and client collaboration. Ensure variety if possible.

• Showcase Process: For each project, detail your approach: understanding client needs, initial concepts, material selection, space planning challenges, and final execution.

• Highlight Sales Impact: If possible, demonstrate how your designs led to successful sales, client satisfaction, or repeat business. Quantify results where feasible.

• Visual Appeal: Ensure your portfolio is visually stunning, well-organized, and professionally presented (digital or physical). High-quality images are crucial.

• Tool Proficiency: Be ready to discuss how you used specific design software or visualization tools in your projects.

• Adaptability: Be prepared to discuss how you would approach a design project for Ethan Allen specifically, considering their product line and brand aesthetic.

Challenge Preparation:

• Sales Scenarios: Practice handling common sales objections, qualifying leads, and closing techniques.

• Design Challenges: Be ready to discuss how you would solve a hypothetical design problem within a given budget and style constraint.

• Technology Integration: Prepare to discuss your experience with CRM, POS, and 3D design software, and how you would leverage them to drive sales and efficiency.

• Brand Alignment: Research Ethan Allen's brand, style, and customer base to articulate how your design aesthetic aligns.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "performance categories (teamwork, customer service, communication skills, decision making, project development, presentation, and technical skills)" and "benchmarks" (sales, home calls, etc.) means the interview process will likely assess both soft skills and quantifiable sales abilities. A strong, visually appealing portfolio that demonstrates both design talent and sales acumen is paramount.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 3D Room Planner Software: Essential for creating visual floor plans and design mockups. Candidates should be proficient with this or similar digital floor planning technology.

• Retail Point of Sale (POS) System: Used for processing customer orders, transactions, and managing sales.

• CRM System: For managing client relationships, tracking leads, sales opportunities, and communication history.

• Visualization Tools: Including augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) applications, to present design concepts to clients.

• Live Chat: For real-time customer engagement and support.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly detailed as separate tools, the role involves tracking performance against benchmarks. This implies using reporting features within the CRM or POS system to monitor:
  • Minimum Monthly Sales
  • Home Calls completed
  • Accent Sales and Softgood Sales
  • Be-Backs (follow-ups)
  • PI (Potential Income or similar sales metric)
  • Close Ratio

CRM & Automation:

• CRM is central for client management. Automation would likely be within the CRM for follow-up reminders or within the POS system for order processing.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with design visualization tools and CRM is explicitly mentioned and critical. Candidates should highlight any experience with similar software, emphasizing their ability to learn new technologies quickly. The "corporate systems and technology to maximize efficiency" phrase suggests a company-wide adoption of these tools.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Client Focus: Prioritizing customer satisfaction and building long-lasting relationships through exceptional service and design expertise.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: Upholding Ethan Allen's reputation for high-quality, custom-crafted products.

• Collaboration: Working effectively within a team environment to achieve shared goals and support colleagues.

• Innovation & Adaptability: Embracing new technologies and design trends to stay relevant and provide cutting-edge solutions.

• Results-Oriented: Driving sales performance and achieving individual and team benchmarks through proactive effort and effective strategies.

• Professionalism: Representing the Ethan Allen brand with integrity and a polished demeanor in all interactions.

Collaboration Style:

• Team-Based Selling: While individual sales are key, collaboration is expected for customer service, sharing best practices, and supporting overall Design Center success.

• Cross-Functional Support: Working with leaders and peers to develop and execute marketing and business plans.

• Feedback Loop: Openness to feedback on performance and contributing suggestions for improving plans and achieving objectives.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of design trends, sales techniques, and effective use of technology.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company values align with a premium retail and design environment, emphasizing client relationships, quality, and professional growth. The "associates are our greatest brand ambassadors" statement highlights the importance of individual conduct and representation of the brand.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Meeting Sales Targets: Consistently achieving ambitious sales benchmarks in a competitive market requires strong sales acumen and client acquisition strategies.

• Balancing Design and Sales: Effectively integrating creative design expertise with the demands of a sales-driven role.

• Client Acquisition: Developing and maintaining a consistent pipeline of new clients through proactive marketing and relationship building.

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

• Technology Adoption: Mastering and effectively utilizing various design, sales, and visualization technologies.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Design Skill Enhancement: Continuous learning on new product lines, design principles, and color trends through internal training and industry resources.

• Sales Training: Development in sales techniques, negotiation, and closing strategies.

• Technology Proficiency: Training on Ethan Allen's specific design software, CRM, and visualization tools.

• Business Development Skills: Learning effective marketing strategies, social media engagement, and client relationship management.

• Career Progression: Clear pathways to leadership roles within Design Centers or specialized design positions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents a significant opportunity for individuals passionate about design to build a successful career in sales. The primary challenge lies in the commission-based compensation, requiring motivation and consistent performance. Growth opportunities are robust for high achievers.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to understanding a client's design needs and translating them into a cohesive design solution." (Focus on active listening, questioning techniques, and design process.)

• "How do you balance creative design principles with budget constraints and client expectations?" (Highlight problem-solving, compromise, and value proposition.)

• "Walk me through a successful sales process you managed, from initial contact to closing the deal. What role did design play?" (Use STAR method, emphasize client relationship and sales skills.)

• "How do you leverage social media and grassroots marketing to generate leads and build a client base?" (Provide specific examples of platforms and strategies used.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Ethan Allen's brand and product offerings?" (Research their style, craftsmanship, and history.)

• "How do you embody the role of a brand ambassador in client interactions?" (Focus on professionalism, brand knowledge, and customer service.)

• "Describe a time you collaborated with a team to achieve a common goal." (Highlight teamwork and communication skills.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame your portfolio projects as narratives – the client's challenge, your solution, and the successful outcome.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, use numbers to demonstrate success (e.g., sales figures, client satisfaction ratings, project scope).

• Tool Demonstration: If presenting digitally, be prepared to show how you used specific software features.

• Ethan Allen Alignment: Clearly articulate how your design style and client approach align with Ethan Allen's brand and target market.

• Conciseness: Be mindful of time; present your strongest examples efficiently.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviews will likely assess both design creativity and sales effectiveness. Candidates should be prepared to articulate their process, demonstrate their ability to drive revenue, and show how they align with the Ethan Allen brand and culture. A strong portfolio is non-negotiable.

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Disclaimer: This enhanced job description is based on the provided information and industry standards. Specific details regarding compensation, benefits, and interview processes should be confirmed directly with Ethan Allen Global Inc.