DESIGN CONSULTANT

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Consultant Company: Bassett Furniture Location: Louisville, Kentucky, United States Job Type: Full-time Category: Sales Operations / GTM (Customer-Facing Sales) Date Posted: September 15, 2025 Experience Level: Entry-level (0-2 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on client-facing sales, leveraging design expertise to drive revenue growth within a retail environment.
• Key responsibilities include building long-term customer relationships through personalized interior design consultations, acting as a brand ambassador for Bassett Furniture's product lines.
• Success is measured by achieving and exceeding sales targets, client satisfaction, and effectively translating customer needs into design solutions.
• The role requires a blend of sales acumen, design sensibility, and a proactive approach to customer engagement and follow-up.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not a traditional "Operations" role focused on internal processes, this position is critical to the Go-To-Market (GTM) strategy by directly influencing customer acquisition, retention, and revenue generation. The skills in understanding customer needs, consultative selling, and relationship management are transferable to operations roles focused on customer success or sales enablement.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Engage customers in consultative selling, identifying their design preferences, lifestyle needs, and budget constraints to recommend appropriate furniture and design solutions.
• Conduct in-home or virtual design consultations and makeovers, utilizing product knowledge and design principles to create compelling customer proposals.
• Build and maintain a robust client base through proactive outreach, follow-up, and exceptional customer service, fostering long-term loyalty and repeat business.
• Achieve and surpass individual sales goals and contribute to overall store revenue targets through effective sales techniques and client relationship management.
• Maintain a comprehensive understanding of Bassett Furniture's product catalog, including construction, materials, customization options, and current design trends.
• Utilize CRM tools to track customer interactions, manage leads, and monitor sales pipeline performance, ensuring data integrity and actionable insights.
• Collaborate with store management and sales teams to share insights, best practices, and contribute to a positive and productive sales environment.
• Stay current with industry trends, competitor offerings, and design innovations to enhance personal expertise and provide superior client service.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "relationship selling" and "design process" suggests a consultative sales approach. For operations professionals, understanding how sales teams engage clients and what data points are critical for customer success is valuable. The responsibility to "create, present, and sell product and design solutions" highlights the direct revenue-generating aspect of this GTM role.

🎓 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: Proven track record in sales, preferably in a retail or commission-based environment. Experience in interior design or home furnishings is a significant advantage.

Required Skills:

• Passion for interior design, color coordination, and home furnishings.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport and trust with diverse clientele.
• Strong sales acumen and a driven, results-oriented mindset to meet or exceed sales goals.
• Excellent listening skills to accurately understand and translate customer wants into design solutions.
• Self-motivated and proactive in client outreach and business development.
• Computer proficiency for utilizing sales tools, CRM, and virtual consultation platforms.
• Polished image and professional demeanor suitable for a high-end retail environment.
• Adaptability to thrive in a dynamic retail setting with varying paces.
• Willingness to work weekends and holidays as required by retail schedules.

Preferred Skills:

• Formal training or certification in interior design.
• Experience with virtual consultation tools and techniques.
• Familiarity with CRM software for sales pipeline management.
• Ability to coordinate colors and textures effectively.
• Customer relationship management (CRM) skills for building long-term client loyalty.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2 years" experience level indicates a role suitable for individuals transitioning into sales or those early in their design/sales career. The emphasis on "desire to learn" and "training" suggests that foundational skills are more critical than extensive prior experience.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While not explicitly a "portfolio" role in the traditional operations sense, candidates are expected to demonstrate a portfolio of past sales successes, client testimonials, or design projects if available, showcasing their ability to drive sales and create appealing design solutions.
• Evidence of successful client relationship management and repeat business generation is highly valued.
• Examples of how they've translated customer needs into successful design outcomes should be a key focus.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their personal sales processes, including lead qualification, consultation methodologies, proposal creation, and closing techniques.
• Understanding and articulating how they gather customer requirements and use that information to guide design choices is crucial.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a sales-focused role, a "portfolio" would typically refer to a track record of sales achievements, client testimonials, or examples of design work. Candidates should be able to articulate their consultative sales process and how they manage client relationships effectively.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

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

• Paid training programs designed to enhance product knowledge, sales techniques, and design skills.
• Comprehensive health benefits including Health, Dental, and Vision coverage.
• Disability and Life Insurance policies.
• 401(k) retirement savings plan.
• Tuition assistance for continued education and professional development.
• Paid time off (PTO) for vacation, sick days, and personal needs.
• Generous employee discounts on Bassett Furniture products.
• Opportunity to work in a state-of-the-art showroom environment.
• Clear pathways for growth and advancement within the company.

Working Hours: Full-time, requiring flexibility to work weekends and holidays, typical of a retail sales environment. The role is described as 40 hours per week, but may vary based on customer traffic and sales needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The compensation structure is commission-based, with significant earning potential tied to performance. This is common in GTM roles and highlights the direct correlation between sales activity and income. The benefits package is comprehensive and competitive for a retail sales position.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Furniture and Home Furnishings Retail. Bassett Furniture is a well-established brand with a heritage dating back to 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 processes, though specific employee count for the Louisville location isn't provided publicly. Founded: 1902, indicating a long-standing company with a deep understanding of its market and a history of resilience and adaptation.

Team Structure:

• Design Consultants typically work within a retail showroom, forming a sales team led by a Store Manager or Sales Manager.
• Collaboration is expected among sales associates to share leads, provide support, and contribute to overall store performance.
• Cross-functional interaction would likely involve showroom staff, delivery coordination, and potentially corporate support teams for marketing or product development.

Methodology:

• The company emphasizes "relationship selling" and a consultative approach to design, focusing on understanding and meeting individual customer needs.
• Training programs are comprehensive, covering product knowledge, sales techniques, and design skills, suggesting a structured approach to associate development.
• A focus on customer experience and building long-term client relationships is central to their sales methodology.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Bassett's long history suggests a stable work environment with a focus on customer trust and quality. The emphasis on "innovating furniture retailing" indicates a company that is not stagnant and values forward-thinking approaches within its established framework.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level to mid-level sales position within the GTM function. As a Design Consultant, the role is client-facing and directly responsible for revenue generation. It's a foundational role for those looking to build a career in sales, particularly within the home furnishings or design industries. Reporting Structure: Design Consultants typically report to a Store Manager or Sales Manager, who oversees daily operations, sales performance, and team development. Operations Impact: The direct impact of this role is on sales revenue, customer acquisition, and brand perception. By successfully guiding customers through the design and purchase process, Design Consultants contribute significantly to the company's top-line growth and market presence.

Growth Opportunities:

• Sales Advancement: Progress to Senior Design Consultant, Sales Manager, or Store Manager roles, taking on greater responsibility for team leadership and business performance.
• Specialization: Develop expertise in specific design styles, product categories, or client segments (e.g., commercial design, custom projects).
• Training & Certification: Utilize Bassett's interior design certification training to enhance professional skills and credentials.
• Cross-Departmental Opportunities: Potential to move into roles in merchandising, marketing, or operations management within Bassett or related retail sectors, leveraging acquired sales and customer insight.

📝 Enhancement Note: The structured training and clear growth paths indicate a commitment to employee development. For individuals starting in sales, this role offers a solid foundation with opportunities to advance within a reputable company.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The primary work environment is a retail showroom, described as "State-of-the Art." This means a well-designed, customer-facing space showcasing furniture and design possibilities. Office Location(s): Louisville, Kentucky. The specific showroom location would be confirmed upon application.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is customer-centric, requiring a professional and inviting presentation.
• Collaboration with fellow sales associates and management is expected within the showroom setting.
• Access to design tools, product samples, and potentially digital design software will be part of the daily work environment.
• The role involves both in-showroom client interactions and potentially off-site client visits for consultations or makeovers.

Work Schedule: Full-time, with a requirement to work weekends and holidays. This is typical for retail sales roles and necessitates flexibility. The 40-hour work week may fluctuate based on business needs and customer traffic.

📝 Enhancement Note: Working in a showroom environment means direct customer interaction and a focus on visual merchandising and customer experience. The on-site nature and weekend requirements are standard for retail positions.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a review of the application and resume, potentially followed by a brief phone screening to assess basic qualifications and interest.
• In-Person Interview: A more in-depth interview, likely with the Store Manager or Sales Manager, focusing on sales experience, design passion, personality, and cultural fit. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their sales approach and design philosophy.
• Potential Role-Play/Case Study: Candidates might be asked to role-play a customer interaction or present a hypothetical design solution to assess their consultative selling and design skills.
• Final Interview: May involve meeting with additional management or team members for a final assessment of fit and potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• If you have a design portfolio, be prepared to showcase relevant projects that demonstrate your ability to understand client needs and create aesthetically pleasing, functional spaces.
• Highlight any past sales achievements, customer testimonials, or examples of exceeding sales targets. Quantify your successes whenever possible.
• Be ready to discuss your process for client relationship management, from initial contact to post-sale follow-up.
• Showcase your understanding of color theory, space planning, and current interior design trends.

Challenge Preparation:

• Prepare to answer behavioral questions about your sales experience, problem-solving skills, and how you handle customer objections or difficult situations.
• Be ready to articulate your passion for design and how you stay current with industry trends.
• Think about specific examples of how you've successfully built customer relationships and driven sales in previous roles.
• Understand Bassett's brand and product offerings beforehand.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely focus heavily on assessing sales aptitude, customer service skills, and a genuine passion for design, rather than technical operations skills. Candidates should prepare to demonstrate their consultative selling approach and client-building capabilities.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM System: Likely used for managing customer interactions, leads, sales pipelines, and client history. Proficiency in CRM usage is key for tracking sales activities and building relationships.
• Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions and managing sales orders.
• Design Software/Tools: May include digital tools for space planning, mood boards, or product visualization to aid in customer consultations.
• Communication Platforms: Email, phone, and potentially virtual meeting software (e.g., Zoom, Teams) for remote consultations and client communication.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales performance reports generated from the CRM and POS systems will be critical for tracking individual and store performance.
• Understanding basic sales metrics (e.g., conversion rates, average transaction value, sales per square foot) is important for success.

CRM & Automation:

• While this role is client-facing, understanding how CRM data feeds into broader sales operations and marketing efforts is beneficial.
• Familiarity with systems that support customer engagement and sales process automation would be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific software names aren't listed, a basic understanding of CRM and POS systems is essential. The role leans more towards utilizing these tools for customer engagement rather than deep technical operations or data analysis.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: A primary value is prioritizing the customer experience and building lasting relationships through excellent service and design expertise.
• Sales Excellence: A drive to achieve and exceed sales targets is fundamental, encouraging a competitive and performance-driven environment.
• Team Collaboration: The culture encourages mutual support among sales associates, sharing knowledge and contributing to collective success.
• Passion for Design: A genuine enthusiasm for interior design and home furnishings is a core cultural element, fostering a creative and inspiring work environment.
• Professionalism: Maintaining a polished image and demonstrating career-minded professionalism is expected in client interactions.

Collaboration Style:

• Collaborative within the sales team to share insights, support each other's clients, and contribute to overall store goals.
• Interaction with management for guidance, training, and performance feedback.
• Potential collaboration with visual merchandisers or showroom managers on display and product presentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture emphasizes customer-centricity, sales performance, and a shared passion for design. Successful candidates will be those who are both self-motivated in sales and collaborative with their team members.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Commission-Based Income: The variable nature of commission income requires consistent sales performance and resilience.
• Meeting Sales Quotas: Continuously achieving sales targets in a competitive retail market can be demanding.
• Managing Diverse Client Needs: Balancing varied customer tastes, budgets, and expectations requires strong adaptability and problem-solving skills.
• Staying Current with Trends: The fast-paced nature of design requires ongoing learning to maintain expertise and relevance.
• Balancing Showroom and Off-site Work: Effectively managing time between in-store customer interactions and off-site consultations or deliveries.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Design Training: Bassett offers interior design certification training, providing a significant opportunity for skill development and professional credentialing.
• Sales Coaching: Access to one-on-one coaching from experienced managers and top performers to refine sales techniques and client management strategies.
• Product Knowledge Expansion: Continuous learning about new product lines, materials, and customization options.
• Career Advancement: Clear pathways for promotion within the sales hierarchy or into management roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenges are performance-driven, typical of sales roles. The growth opportunities are strong, particularly the company-sponsored design certification, which offers significant professional development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Tell me about your passion for interior design and how you stay updated on trends." Prepare to discuss your design influences, favorite styles, and how you research new products and aesthetics.
• "Describe your sales process. How do you build rapport with clients and understand their needs?" Focus on your consultative selling approach, active listening skills, and how you translate client requirements into solutions.
• "How do you handle customer objections or situations where a client is undecided?" Be ready to share examples of your problem-solving skills and how you guide clients towards a decision.
• "Describe a time you exceeded a sales goal. What strategies did you employ?" Quantify your achievements and explain the actionable steps you took to drive success.
• "What do you know about Bassett Furniture, and why are you interested in working here?" Research the company's history, values, and product offerings. Connect your passion for design and sales to the brand.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Be prepared to discuss how you contribute to a positive team environment and your approach to collaboration.
• Demonstrate your understanding of Bassett's commitment to customer relationships and quality.
• Highlight your professional demeanor and how you align with the company's values.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• If you have a portfolio, be ready to walk through 1-2 key projects, explaining the client's needs, your design approach, the products you recommended, and the successful outcome (e.g., sales achieved, client satisfaction).
• Focus on storytelling: how you identified the problem, developed a solution, and delivered value.
• If you don't have a formal portfolio, be ready to discuss your design sensibilities and past sales successes with specific examples.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on showcasing sales aptitude, design passion, and strong interpersonal skills. Candidates should be ready to articulate their consultative sales process and demonstrate how they can build client relationships that drive revenue.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Consultant position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on jobs.dayforcehcm.com.
• Resume Tailoring: Customize your resume to highlight relevant sales experience, customer service achievements, and any design-related skills or interests. Quantify your sales successes whenever possible.
• Portfolio Preparation (if applicable): Gather examples of past design work, client testimonials, or sales achievements that showcase your ability to drive revenue and create appealing design solutions.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Bassett Furniture's history, product lines, design aesthetic, and customer-focused sales approach. Understand their brand values.
• Interview Practice: Prepare to discuss your passion for design, your sales methodology, and how you build and maintain customer relationships. Practice answering common sales and behavioral interview questions.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions tailored to a sales-focused GTM role. All details should be verified directly with Bassett Furniture before making application decisions.