DESIGN CONSULTANT

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Consultant

Company: Bassett Furniture

Location: Lawrenceville, New Jersey, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Sales & Design

Date Posted: February 10, 2026

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive revenue growth by leveraging exceptional sales and interior design consultation skills within a retail showroom environment.

• Cultivate and maintain long-term customer relationships through personalized design services and "relationship selling" methodologies.

• Serve as a brand ambassador for Bassett Furniture, embodying a passion for design, fashion, and customer satisfaction.

• Contribute to a positive and collaborative team dynamic, working weekends and holidays to meet customer needs and achieve sales targets.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Design Consultant" and the core function involves interior design, the description strongly emphasizes sales performance, commissioned environments, and exceeding sales goals. This indicates a hybrid role where design expertise is a key enabler for sales success, rather than a pure design position. The "0-2 years" experience level suggests entry-level candidates with strong sales aptitude and a passion for design will be considered, with robust training provided.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth interior design consultations with customers, identifying their needs, lifestyle, and budget to propose tailored furniture and design solutions.

• Utilize comprehensive knowledge of furniture construction, design trends, color theory, and texture coordination to create compelling design proposals.

• Actively engage in "relationship selling" techniques to build rapport, trust, and long-term client loyalty, fostering repeat business and referrals.

• Maximize selling opportunities by offering design makeovers and comprehensive room solutions, transforming customer visions into reality.

• Drive store traffic and generate leads through proactive customer engagement, both in-person at the showroom and virtually via appointments and live chats.

• Present and sell product and design solutions effectively, articulating value propositions and addressing customer concerns with professionalism.

• Maintain a polished image and professional demeanor at all times, reflecting the quality and style of the Bassett Furniture brand.

• Collaborate effectively with team members, supporting store-wide sales initiatives and contributing to a positive work environment.

• Manage time effectively to handle a varied pace of retail activity, including in-home and in-business consultations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of direct sales activities, client relationship management, and creative design application. The emphasis on "relationship selling," "makeovers," and "transforming customer visions" points to a consultative sales approach where the consultant acts as a trusted advisor. The requirement to "drive to customers' residences and businesses" indicates an expectation for field-based consultations beyond the showroom.

🎓 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. Formal Interior Design certification training is provided.

Experience: 0-2 years of experience in a sales, customer service, or design-related role. Proven track record of success in sales is a significant advantage.

Required Skills:

• Passion for interior design and a keen eye for color, texture, and fashion trends.

• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and active listening skills.

• Friendly, outgoing, and positive personality with a strong customer-centric approach.

• Highly self-motivated with a proactive approach to client engagement and business development.

• Proven ability to meet or exceed sales goals in a commissioned environment.

• Computer proficiency for utilizing sales tools, CRM systems, and virtual communication platforms.

• Ability to effectively translate customer wants and needs into actionable design choices.

• Team-oriented mindset, dedicated to supporting colleagues and contributing to collective success.

• Polished image and career-minded professionalism.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in furniture sales or home décor.

• Familiarity with design software or visualization tools.

• Demonstrated ability to conduct effective virtual appointments and live chats.

• Experience in providing in-home or in-business consultations.

• Knowledge of furniture construction and materials.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize soft skills and attitude over extensive formal education or experience, aligning with an entry-level to mid-level role that provides significant training. A "passion for design" is listed as a primary qualification, underscoring its importance. The inclusion of "commissioned sales environment" and "proven track record of success in sales" clearly indicates that sales performance is a critical metric for success in this role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly requested, candidates are encouraged to showcase examples of their design sensibility, color coordination skills, or any past sales successes that demonstrate their ability to translate customer needs into solutions. This could include mood boards, design sketches, or descriptions of successful client projects.

• Demonstrate an understanding of how to present design concepts and product solutions persuasively to clients.

Process Documentation:

• Experience or willingness to learn and follow Bassett's established sales and design consultation processes.

• Ability to document customer needs, design choices, and sales transactions accurately within the company's systems.

• Understanding of how to leverage training materials and ongoing coaching to refine personal sales and design processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the role's focus on sales and design consultation within a structured retail environment, the emphasis is less on a formal, pre-built design portfolio and more on demonstrating practical skills and a teachable attitude. The company provides extensive training, suggesting that the "process" aspect will be learned. However, candidates should be prepared to articulate their design thinking and sales approach.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Estimated $60,000 - $95,000 annually, with top performers potentially earning up to $125,000+. This is a commission-based compensation plan with a "forgiven draw" structure, meaning earnings are primarily driven by sales.

Benefits:

• Paid training to develop product knowledge, sales techniques, and design skills.

• Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision coverage.

• Disability insurance.

• Life Insurance.

• 401(k) retirement savings plan.

• Tuition assistance for continued learning 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.

• Clear opportunities for career growth and advancement within the company.

Working Hours: Full-time commitment, including working all weekends and most holidays. Two days off during the week will be provided. The role is on-site.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided ($60,000-$95,000) is based on the company's stated average for experienced Design Consultants and the potential for top writers to earn up to $125,000+. This is a commission-heavy role, so understanding the draw structure and commission tiers will be crucial for candidates. The benefits package is robust, offering standard employee perks alongside specific advantages like paid training and tuition assistance, which are valuable for skill development in this role.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Furniture Retail and Manufacturing. Bassett Furniture has a long-standing heritage in the furniture industry, established in 1902, known for quality custom furniture, craftsmanship, and a blend of style, comfort, and value.

Company Size: While not explicitly stated in the job description, Bassett Furniture Industries is a publicly traded company with a significant retail footprint across the U.S., suggesting a medium to large organization with numerous showrooms and employees.

Founded: 1902, highlighting a century-long legacy and deep experience in furniture manufacturing and retail.

Team Structure:

• Design Consultants likely operate within a showroom team, reporting to a Showroom Manager or Sales Manager.

• Collaboration is expected with fellow Design Consultants, sales support staff, and potentially delivery or operations teams.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Sales: Focus on understanding individual customer needs, lifestyle, and investment range to provide personalized solutions.

• Relationship Building: Emphasis on "relationship selling" to foster long-term customer loyalty and repeat business.

• Design Expertise: Leveraging interior design principles and product knowledge to create appealing and functional living spaces.

• Continuous Learning: Commitment to ongoing training in product, sales techniques, and design skills through online and in-person programs.

Company Website: www.bassettfurniture.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Bassett's culture is characterized by a blend of tradition and innovation. The company values its long heritage ("over a century") while also focusing on modernizing furniture retailing. The emphasis on "people who shape the customers' experience" suggests a strong focus on customer service and employee development. The company's commitment to offering "Interior Design certification training" indicates a culture that invests in its employees' professional growth.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents an entry-level to mid-level position within the sales and design track at Bassett Furniture. It serves as a foundational role for individuals passionate about interior design and eager to develop strong sales acumen.

Reporting Structure: Design Consultants typically report to a Showroom Manager or Sales Manager. This structure provides direct oversight, coaching, and performance feedback.

Operations Impact: While not a traditional "operations" role in the sense of process optimization or back-end systems, the Design Consultant's impact is directly tied to revenue generation. Successful consultants drive significant sales, contributing directly to the company's financial performance and market position. Their ability to build customer loyalty also impacts long-term customer lifetime value and brand reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Sales Advancement: Progress to Senior Design Consultant, Key Account Manager, or specialized sales roles.

• Design Specialization: Develop expertise in specific design styles or product categories, potentially leading to Showroom Manager roles with design oversight.

• Leadership Development: Opportunities to move into management positions such as Assistant Showroom Manager or Showroom Manager, overseeing sales teams and showroom operations.

• Training & Certification: Utilization of Bassett's provided training programs, including Interior Design certification, to enhance skills and marketability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for a Design Consultant at Bassett is clearly defined within the sales and retail management framework. The emphasis on "continuing opportunities to learn" and "opportunity for growth and advancement" suggests a supportive environment for career progression. The unique aspect is the potential for design expertise to be a differentiator for leadership roles in a retail context.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The primary work environment is an on-site, state-of-the-art retail showroom. This is a customer-facing role in a retail setting.

Office Location(s): Lawrenceville, New Jersey. The company operates numerous showrooms across the United States.

Workspace Context:

• A dynamic retail showroom environment designed to showcase Bassett Furniture products.

• Opportunities for collaboration with a sales team, sharing best practices and supporting customer interactions.

• Access to training resources, design tools, and product samples to assist in consultations.

• The role involves spending significant time on the showroom floor, interacting with customers, and potentially conducting in-home or in-business consultations.

Work Schedule: Full-time, requiring availability to work weekends and most holidays, with two designated days off during the week. This schedule is typical for retail sales roles to ensure customer coverage during peak shopping times.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "state-of-the-art showroom" implies a modern, well-appointed retail space designed to enhance the customer experience. The requirement to work weekends and holidays is standard for retail sales roles and is crucial for candidates to understand for work-life balance considerations. The ability to conduct "virtual appointments and live chats" suggests integration with digital tools to complement the in-person experience.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of application and resume to assess alignment with basic qualifications (passion for design, sales aptitude, communication skills).

• First Interview (Phone/Video): Discussion of candidate's background, motivation, understanding of design and sales principles, and cultural fit.

May involve behavioral questions.

• In-Person Interview/Showroom Visit: This is a critical stage. Candidates will likely meet with the Showroom Manager and potentially other team members. They may be asked to:

  • Discuss their design philosophy and approach to client consultations.
  • Present a hypothetical design solution for a given scenario.
  • Demonstrate their ability to engage and listen to customer needs.
  • Showcase their understanding of sales dynamics and commission environments.

• Role-Playing/Case Study: Candidates might be presented with a customer scenario and asked to walk through their consultation process, from initial engagement to proposing solutions.

• Final Interview: May involve senior management or further discussion of career aspirations and fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• While a formal portfolio isn't explicitly required, prepare to discuss your design sensibilities. This could include:

  • Describing your personal design style and how you stay current with trends.
  • Explaining how you would approach a client with specific needs (e.g., a family with young children, a client seeking a modern minimalist aesthetic).
  • If you have any visual examples (even personal projects, mood boards, or sketches), be ready to share or describe them.

• Highlight any sales achievements with quantifiable results (e.g., "exceeded sales targets by X%," "increased customer retention by Y%").

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss how you would handle challenging customer situations (e.g., indecisive clients, budget constraints, conflicting design preferences).

• Practice articulating the value of Bassett's products and services, focusing on quality, customization, and design expertise.

• Understand the commission-based compensation model and be prepared to discuss your motivation and strategy for success in such an environment.

• Research Bassett Furniture's brand, history, and product lines to demonstrate genuine interest and understanding.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is geared towards assessing sales potential, design aptitude, and customer relationship-building skills. Candidates should emphasize their ability to connect with people, understand needs, and translate those into sales, supported by design knowledge. The "forgiven draw" and commission structure means interviewers will heavily scrutinize sales drive and potential.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM System: Likely a proprietary or industry-standard CRM for managing customer interactions, sales pipelines, and client history. Proficiency in CRM usage is expected.

• Point-of-Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions and managing sales orders.

• Computer Proficiency: Essential for utilizing sales tools, communication platforms, and potentially design visualization software.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Virtual Appointment Tools: Software for conducting remote consultations and live chats (e.g., Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or specialized retail platforms).

• Design Visualization Tools: Potential use of in-house or accessible software to help customers visualize design outcomes, though this may be provided during training.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack for this role is primarily focused on customer relationship management and sales transaction processing. While advanced analytics or automation tools are not the primary focus for the consultant, proficiency with CRM systems and virtual communication platforms is increasingly important for modern retail sales roles. The company provides training, so candidates are not expected to be experts in all specific tools upfront.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer satisfaction and building lasting relationships through personalized service and design expertise.

• Sales Excellence: A strong drive to meet and exceed sales goals, understanding that commission is a primary motivator.

• Design Passion: Genuine enthusiasm for interior design, aesthetics, and helping clients create beautiful living spaces.

• Teamwork: Commitment to supporting colleagues, contributing to a positive showroom atmosphere, and working collaboratively towards common goals.

• Professionalism: Maintaining a polished image, ethical conduct, and a career-minded approach to one's role.

• Continuous Improvement: Willingness to learn, adapt, and grow through provided training and coaching.

Collaboration Style:

• Showroom Synergy: Working closely with fellow Design Consultants and showroom staff to create a welcoming and efficient customer experience.

• Shared Success: Contributing to the overall success of the showroom through individual sales efforts and team support.

• Knowledge Exchange: Openness to sharing design ideas, sales techniques, and customer insights with colleagues.

• Client-Centric Approach: Ensuring that collaboration efforts are always focused on best serving the customer's needs and enhancing their shopping experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: Bassett's values appear to center around customer-centricity, sales performance, and professional development within a team-oriented retail environment. The emphasis on "passion for design" and "relationship selling" suggests a culture that values both creative flair and strong interpersonal skills. The company's long history implies a stable and established corporate culture.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Commission-Based Income: The primary challenge is consistently generating enough sales to achieve a desirable income in a commission-only or draw-plus-commission structure. This requires strong sales skills, resilience, and effective client acquisition strategies.

• Weekend/Holiday Work: Adapting to a work schedule that includes weekends and most holidays can be demanding for work-life balance.

• Customer Needs Variability: Effectively catering to a wide range of customer tastes, budgets, and design requirements requires adaptability and broad design knowledge.

• Market Competition: Navigating a competitive furniture retail market requires continuous effort in client acquisition and differentiation.

• Managing In-Home Consultations: Successfully conducting consultations outside the showroom, including travel and client home environments, presents logistical and interpersonal challenges.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Comprehensive Training: Access to extensive online and in-person training covering product knowledge, sales techniques, and design principles.

• Interior Design Certification: Opportunity to earn an Interior Design certification through Bassett's proprietary program, enhancing professional credentials.

• Mentorship and Coaching: One-on-one coaching from experienced managers and sales professionals to refine skills and career trajectory.

• Product & Trend Education: Continuous learning about new furniture lines, design trends, and materials to stay current and provide expert advice.

• Sales Skill Enhancement: Development of advanced sales methodologies, client management, and closing techniques.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a retail sales role with a commission structure. The growth opportunities, particularly the provided Interior Design certification, are a significant differentiator and a strong asset for career development in the design and sales field.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Approach: "Describe your design philosophy. How do you approach understanding a client's style and needs?" (Prepare to discuss your process, inspiration, and ability to translate needs into solutions.)

• Sales Motivation: "This is a commission-based role. How do you stay motivated to meet sales targets, and what strategies do you employ to drive sales?" (Be ready to articulate your drive, resilience, and sales tactics.)

• Customer Engagement: "How would you engage a customer who is browsing in the showroom but hasn't approached you for help?" (Demonstrate proactive yet non-intrusive sales techniques.)

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine a client loves a sofa but is concerned about its durability with young children. How would you address this?" (Showcase your product knowledge and ability to offer solutions.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Bassett Furniture specifically, beyond just the sales aspect?" (Research Bassett's history, values, and product lines. Show genuine interest in their brand.)

• "How do you see yourself contributing to a team environment, especially one that requires weekend work?" (Emphasize teamwork, flexibility, and a positive attitude.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Design Sensibility: Be prepared to talk about your personal aesthetic, favorite design styles, and how you stay updated on trends. If you have any visual aids (even personal photos of decorated spaces, mood boards, or sketches), be ready to describe them.

• Sales Narrative: Frame any past experiences (sales or otherwise) in terms of problem-solving, customer interaction, and achieving goals. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Brand Alignment: Clearly articulate how your passion for design and customer service aligns with Bassett's brand values and mission.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong blend of design passion, sales drive, and excellent customer service skills. Candidates should weave in their understanding of Bassett's brand and the commission-based nature of the role into their responses, showcasing preparedness and enthusiasm.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Consultant position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on Dayforce.

• Portfolio Preparation: While not a formal requirement, consider preparing a brief overview of your design interests and any past projects or sales experiences that highlight your relevant skills. Be ready to discuss your approach to design and sales.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize any customer service, sales, or design-related experience. Highlight achievements like exceeding sales targets, positive customer feedback, or design projects.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Bassett Furniture's history, product lines, brand values, and recent news. Understand their commitment to customization and quality.

• Interview Practice: Practice answering common interview questions related to sales, customer service, design, and teamwork. Be ready to articulate your motivation for working in a commission-based retail environment.

⚠️ 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.