DESIGN CONSULTANT

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Consultant Company: Bassett Furniture Location: Manchester, Missouri, United States Job Type: Full-time Category: Sales Operations / GTM (Customer-Facing Sales) Date Posted: August 29, 2025 Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive revenue growth by leveraging interior design expertise and relationship-selling techniques to cultivate long-term customer loyalty.
• Master comprehensive product knowledge, including furniture construction and current design trends, to provide expert consultations.
• Execute personalized design makeovers and consultations to translate customer needs into successful sales outcomes.
• Utilize strong interpersonal and communication skills to build rapport and understand client preferences, lifestyle, and budget.
• Operate within a commissioned sales environment, demonstrating a high drive to meet and exceed sales targets.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this role is primarily customer-facing sales, its emphasis on design consultation, relationship building, and understanding customer needs aligns with GTM (Go-To-Market) operations principles. Success in this role relies heavily on understanding customer lifecycle management and leveraging design as a sales enablement tool, which are key components of effective GTM strategies. The role also requires a strong understanding of the sales process and the ability to influence purchasing decisions through expert advice, mirroring operational support functions within sales.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Engage customers to identify their unique design preferences, lifestyle requirements, and budgetary constraints, translating these into actionable design solutions.
• Conduct in-depth interior design consultations, both in-showroom and potentially at client residences, to offer personalized recommendations and create compelling room makeovers.
• Leverage comprehensive knowledge of furniture construction, materials, fabrics, and current design trends to advise customers effectively.
• Utilize relationship selling methodologies to build trust and foster long-term client relationships, encouraging repeat business and referrals.
• Actively manage a sales pipeline, follow up on leads, and consistently work towards exceeding individual sales goals and contributing to store revenue targets.
• Create, present, and sell product and design solutions that meet customer needs and align with Bassett's brand aesthetic and quality standards.
• Coordinate and discern colors, textures, and patterns to create aesthetically pleasing and functional design proposals for clients.
• Maintain a polished and professional image, reflecting the high standards of the Bassett brand and its commitment to customer service.
• Utilize computer proficiency for client management, order processing, and accessing product information and design resources.
• Actively participate in team meetings and training sessions to continuously enhance product knowledge, sales techniques, and design skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities emphasize a blend of sales acumen and design expertise. Success hinges on the ability to translate customer needs into tangible design solutions that drive sales. This involves proactive client engagement, consultative selling, and a deep understanding of the product catalog and design principles, all crucial for achieving GTM objectives in a retail environment.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• While no specific degree is mandated, a background or strong interest in Interior Design, Fashion Merchandising, or a related creative field is highly beneficial and often implied by the "passion for design" requirement.

Experience:

• Proven track record of success in sales, preferably in a retail or commission-based environment.
• Experience in customer-facing roles where relationship building and consultative selling were key components.
• Prior exposure to interior design, home furnishings, or a related creative industry is advantageous.

Required Skills:

• Passion for interior design and a keen eye for color, texture, and style coordination.
• Exceptional sales skills with a demonstrated ability to meet or exceed sales goals.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective customer engagement and relationship building.
• Excellent listening skills to accurately translate customer wants and needs into design choices.
• Self-motivated and driven to develop a clientele and actively pursue sales opportunities.
• Computer proficiency for sales systems, design tools, and client management.
• Positive outlook and a friendly, outgoing personality conducive to customer interaction.
• Professional demeanor and a polished image appropriate for a retail design environment.
• Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented setting and support fellow associates.
• Willingness to work weekends and holidays as required by retail operations.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with interior design software or visualization tools.
• Knowledge of furniture construction, materials, and manufacturing processes.
• Familiarity with different design styles and trends.
• Previous experience in a commissioned sales environment.
• Ability to conduct virtual appointments and live chats effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications highlight a strong emphasis on sales performance and interpersonal skills, with "passion for design" being a critical, albeit subjective, requirement. The "proven track record of success in sales" combined with the desire to work in a commissioned environment suggests that candidates with demonstrable sales achievements will be prioritized. The ability to adapt to a commission-based structure and thrive in a retail setting are key selection criteria.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly requested, candidates are expected to demonstrate their "passion for design" and ability to "discern and coordinate colors and textures." This can be showcased through examples of past design projects (even personal ones), a strong understanding of design principles during interviews, or through a well-articulated personal aesthetic.
• Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they translate customer needs into design solutions, effectively demonstrating their consultative process.

Process Documentation:

• The role does not require formal process documentation in the traditional operations sense. However, successful candidates will need to understand and execute Bassett's established sales and design consultation processes.
• This includes following the company's guidelines for customer engagement, needs assessment, design presentation, and sales closing.
• The ability to adapt these processes to individual customer needs while adhering to brand standards is crucial.

📝 Enhancement Note: Although a formal portfolio isn't a stated requirement, the emphasis on "passion for design" and the ability to "discern and coordinate colors and textures" implies that candidates should be prepared to articulate their design perspective and process. This can be achieved by being ready to discuss past projects or demonstrate an understanding of design principles during the interview. The role focuses on executing existing company processes rather than creating new ones.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• The opportunity offers a commission-based compensation plan.
• The estimated annual income for experienced Bassett Design Consultants ranges from $70,000 to $105,000.
• Top performers can earn up to $135,000 per year.

Benefits:

• Paid training program to develop product knowledge, sales techniques, and design skills.
• Health, Dental, and Vision coverage.
• Disability insurance.
• Life Insurance.
• 401(k) plan for retirement savings.
• Tuition assistance for further education and development.
• Paid time off (PTO) for work-life balance.
• Generous employee discounts on Bassett Furniture products.
• Opportunity to work in a state-of-the-art showroom environment.
• Potential for growth and advancement within the company.

Working Hours:

• The role requires flexibility, including willingness to work weekends and holidays, which is standard for retail environments.
• While specific daily hours are not listed, a full-time position typically implies around 40 hours per week, with scheduling likely dictated by showroom operating hours and customer demand.

📝 Enhancement Note: The compensation structure is heavily commission-driven, with a significant earning potential for high-performing sales professionals. The provided salary range ($70,000-$105,000) is an estimate based on the company's stated averages for experienced consultants, with top writers earning more. This aligns with typical retail sales roles that reward performance directly. The benefits package is comprehensive, offering standard employee benefits common in the retail sector.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Furniture & Home Furnishings Retail. Bassett Furniture is a long-standing American brand, established in 1902, known for quality custom furniture and a focus on innovation in furniture retailing. Company Size: Bassett Furniture Industries is a significant player in the furniture market, implying a structured corporate environment with established retail operations and support functions. Founded: 1902. This long history suggests a company with a stable foundation, deep industry knowledge, and a commitment to enduring quality and customer relationships.

Team Structure:

• Design Consultants likely operate within a retail store environment, reporting to a Store Manager or Showroom Manager.
• They collaborate closely with other sales associates, design consultants, and potentially showroom support staff.
• Cross-functional collaboration would typically involve communication with design specialists, customer service, and potentially logistics or order fulfillment teams to ensure seamless customer experiences.

Methodology:

• The company emphasizes a "relationship selling" approach, focusing on building long-term customer connections rather than transactional sales.
• Design consultations are central to their methodology, using complementary design services as a tool for customer engagement and sales development.
• Training programs are comprehensive, covering product knowledge, sales techniques, and design skills, with ongoing learning opportunities.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Bassett Furniture's culture appears to value customer relationships, design expertise, and a commitment to quality. The company's long history and focus on innovation suggest a blend of tradition and forward-thinking. The emphasis on training and development indicates a supportive environment for employees looking to build a career in design and sales.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a "Design Consultant," which is a client-facing sales position with a significant design component. It is a mid-level role within the sales and design function of a retail store.

Reporting Structure: Design Consultants typically report to a Store Manager or Showroom Manager. They are part of the sales team within a specific retail location.

Operations Impact: While not a traditional "operations" role in terms of process optimization or system management, the Design Consultant's success directly impacts the company's revenue and customer satisfaction. Their ability to effectively sell products and build customer loyalty contributes significantly to the overall financial health and brand reputation of Bassett Furniture. They are the front-line ambassadors of the brand's design capabilities and customer service promise.

Growth Opportunities:

• Sales Advancement: Progress to senior Design Consultant roles, potentially specializing in specific design areas or client segments.
• Leadership Track: Opportunities to move into management roles such as Assistant Store Manager or Store Manager, overseeing sales teams and showroom operations.
• Design Specialization: Pursue advanced training and certification in interior design offered by Bassett, potentially leading to roles with more specialized design responsibilities.
• Cross-Functional Roles: Potential to move into corporate roles related to sales training, product development, or visual merchandising, leveraging their showroom experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path within Bassett for a Design Consultant is primarily focused on sales performance and progression within the retail management structure. The company's offer of interior design certification training provides a clear avenue for skill development and specialization within the design aspect of the role, which can be a unique growth path.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The work environment is a retail showroom, specifically a Bassett Furniture store. These are typically designed to be aesthetically pleasing, showcasing the company's product lines.

Office Location(s): The specific location is Manchester, Missouri. Bassett Furniture operates numerous showrooms across the United States.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is a dynamic retail showroom environment where consultants interact directly with customers.
• It involves a mix of time spent on the showroom floor, in design consultation areas, and potentially at a desk for client management and order processing.
• Collaboration is primarily with fellow sales associates and management, fostering a team-oriented sales culture.
• Access to product samples, design resources, and potentially design software is expected.

Work Schedule: The role requires flexibility, including availability to work weekends and holidays, which is typical for retail operations. While a standard full-time schedule is implied, specific hours will vary based on store operating hours and customer traffic patterns.

📝 Enhancement Note: The retail showroom setting is central to this role. It demands adaptability to customer flow and a willingness to work during peak retail hours, including weekends and holidays. The environment is customer-centric and requires a proactive approach to sales and design engagement.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely conducted by HR or a hiring manager to assess basic qualifications, passion for design, and sales aptitude.
• In-Person Interview/Audition: Candidates will likely meet with the Store Manager or Showroom Manager. This stage may include scenario-based questions, discussions about past sales successes, and an assessment of their design perspective and communication style.
• Design Consultation Simulation: Candidates might be asked to simulate a design consultation, demonstrating their ability to engage a "customer," understand needs, and propose solutions.
• Sales Goal Discussion: Expect to discuss your approach to meeting and exceeding sales targets in a commissioned environment.
• Cultural Fit Assessment: Evaluation of personality, professionalism, and alignment with Bassett's values and customer-centric approach.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• While not mandatory, be prepared to discuss any design-related projects, personal or professional, that showcase your skills in color coordination, space planning, and style.
• Highlight instances where you've successfully translated client needs into tangible outcomes, particularly in a sales or consultative context.
• Be ready to articulate your design process and how you approach understanding a client's lifestyle and preferences.

Challenge Preparation:

• Sales Scenarios: Prepare for questions related to handling objections, closing sales, and building rapport with diverse customer types.
• Design Scenarios: Think about how you would approach designing a room for a hypothetical client with specific needs or constraints.
• Commissioned Sales: Be ready to discuss your motivation and strategies for succeeding in a commission-based compensation structure.
• Company Knowledge: Research Bassett's product lines, design philosophy, and brand history to demonstrate genuine interest.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely focus on assessing sales drive, design sensibility, and customer engagement skills. Candidates should be prepared to articulate their sales strategies, demonstrate their design thinking, and express genuine enthusiasm for interior design and the Bassett brand.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM System: For managing customer relationships, tracking leads, and logging sales activities. (Specific CRM not mentioned, but Salesforce or similar is common).
• Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions and managing orders.
• Design Visualization Tools: While not explicitly stated, Bassett may provide or recommend specific software for creating design renderings or mood boards to aid customer consultations.
• Product Information Databases: Access to detailed product specifications, materials, and customization options.
• Communication Tools: Email, phone, and potentially virtual meeting platforms (e.g., video conferencing for remote consultations).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales performance dashboards and reports to track individual and store-wide sales figures, commission earnings, and key performance indicators (KPIs).

CRM & Automation:

• Utilization of CRM for lead management, customer segmentation, and follow-up campaigns to nurture client relationships.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with CRM systems and POS software is expected for managing customer interactions and sales transactions. The ability to leverage design tools and product information resources effectively will be crucial for providing expert consultations and driving sales.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Centricity: A primary focus on understanding and meeting customer needs through personalized design and exceptional service.
• Sales Excellence: A drive to achieve and exceed sales targets through relationship building and consultative selling.
• Design Passion: A genuine enthusiasm for interior design, color coordination, and creating beautiful living spaces.
• Teamwork: A collaborative spirit, supporting fellow associates and contributing to a positive showroom environment.
• Professionalism: Maintaining a high standard of personal presentation and ethical conduct.
• Continuous Learning: Commitment to ongoing development in product knowledge, design trends, and sales techniques.

Collaboration Style:

• Collaborative within the sales team, sharing insights and supporting colleagues to achieve store-wide goals.
• Interactions with customers are consultative and relationship-focused.
• Potential collaboration with design specialists or showroom management for complex projects or customer escalations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture emphasizes customer satisfaction, sales performance, and a shared passion for design. Teamwork and professionalism are key components, fostering an environment where associates are encouraged to grow and contribute to the overall success of the showroom.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Commission-Based Income: The primary challenge is the reliance on commission for earnings, requiring consistent sales performance in a competitive market.
• Customer Variability: Dealing with a diverse range of customer tastes, budgets, and expectations requires adaptability and strong problem-solving skills.
• Staying Current: Keeping up-to-date with the latest design trends, product offerings, and furniture construction knowledge is essential.
• Balancing Sales and Design: Effectively balancing the demands of achieving sales targets with providing in-depth design consultations.
• Weekend/Holiday Work: Adapting to a retail schedule that includes working weekends and holidays.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Interior Design Certification: Bassett offers its own interior design certification training, a significant opportunity for skill enhancement and career specialization.
• Product Training: Continuous training on new product lines, materials, and customization options.
• Sales Technique Training: Development in consultative selling, relationship management, and closing techniques.
• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from experienced sales professionals and management within the company.
• Career Advancement: Potential to move into management or specialized design roles within Bassett.

📝 Enhancement Note: The key challenge is performance-driven income, necessitating a proactive and persistent sales approach. The company provides structured training and certification opportunities, offering clear pathways for professional growth and specialization in interior design.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Sales Approach: "Describe your approach to building customer relationships and understanding their needs in a design context." (Prepare to discuss your consultative selling process and how you identify client preferences).
• Design Process: "How do you stay updated on design trends, and how would you help a client choose colors and textures for their home?" (Be ready to share your design methodology and knowledge of current styles).
• Handling Objections: "What is your strategy for handling customer objections related to price, style, or lead times?" (Prepare specific examples of how you've overcome sales obstacles).
• Commission Motivation: "How do you motivate yourself to achieve sales goals in a commission-based environment?" (Highlight your drive, goal-setting strategies, and past successes).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in Bassett Furniture and this Design Consultant role?" (Research the company's history, values, and product offerings).
• "How do you see your design skills contributing to our team and customer experience?" (Connect your passion for design to the company's brand and customer focus).
• "What are your thoughts on working weekends and holidays in a retail setting?" (Express flexibility and understanding of retail demands).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• If you have a design portfolio, be ready to concisely explain 1-2 key projects, focusing on the client's needs, your design process, and the successful outcome.
• Highlight how you applied color theory, space planning, and product selection to meet client objectives.
• If no formal portfolio, be prepared to verbally walk through a hypothetical design project, demonstrating your thought process.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to showcase both sales acumen and design passion. Be ready to discuss your sales strategies, demonstrate your understanding of design principles, and articulate how you build client relationships. Highlighting your ability to thrive in a commission-based, customer-facing role will be crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Consultant position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Dayforce portal.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight sales achievements, customer relationship management skills, and any design-related experience or passion. Quantify your sales successes whenever possible (e.g., "Exceeded sales targets by 15% for Q3 2024").
• Portfolio Preparation (Optional but Recommended): If you have design work, prepare a concise digital portfolio or be ready to discuss specific projects during the interview that showcase your design sensibility, color coordination skills, and ability to translate client needs into solutions.
• Interview Practice: Rehearse answers to common sales and design interview questions, focusing on demonstrating your enthusiasm, communication skills, and understanding of the consultative sales process. Practice articulating your approach to commission-based sales and customer engagement.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Bassett Furniture's brand, product lines, design philosophy, and history to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural fit. Understand their approach to "relationship selling."

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description provides a comprehensive overview based on industry standards for similar roles and the provided information. Specific responsibilities, expectations, and compensation details should always be verified directly with Bassett Furniture during the application and interview process.