Design Consultant

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Consultant Company: EQ3 Location: Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada Job Type: Full-Time Category: Retail Operations / Sales Operations Date Posted: July 22, 2025 Experience Level: 2-5 Years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on driving retail sales through personalized client consultations and design solutions, directly impacting revenue generation and customer engagement.
• It involves leveraging design instincts and sales acumen to guide clients through product selection, fostering strong customer relationships and ensuring client satisfaction.
• The position requires proficiency in retail operations and systems, including POS and Microsoft Office, to manage sales processes and client orders efficiently.
• Success is measured by meeting and exceeding personal and store sales targets, contributing to the overall financial performance of the retail location.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Design Consultant," the core responsibilities and required skills strongly align with a Sales Operations or Retail Sales role with a significant design component. The emphasis on commission-based sales, selling objectives, and tracking orders through to completion positions this as a revenue-generating role within the retail operations framework.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Engage with clients to understand their design needs, preferences, and project requirements through active listening and consultative questioning.
• Provide tailored design solutions and product recommendations, utilizing tools such as 2D/3D floor plans and mood boards to visualize concepts for clients.
• Manage the entire sales cycle from initial consultation to order completion, ensuring a seamless and positive client experience.
• Actively pursue and achieve individual and store sales performance targets, with a strong emphasis on commission-based sales.
• Maintain and uphold company standards for personal presentation, store appearance, and customer service excellence.
• Build and nurture client relationships, scheduling and conducting in-home, virtual, and in-store design consultations.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of EQ3's product lines, design trends, and company loyalty programs to effectively advise clients.
• Track and manage client orders from placement through to fulfillment, liaising with internal teams as necessary to ensure timely delivery and client satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a direct sales role with operational support. The emphasis on "helping clients bring their dream spaces to life" and "providing individualized design solutions" highlights the consultative sales approach, while "meeting selling objectives" and "tracking orders through to completion" underscore the operational and performance-driven aspects of the role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• A formal education in Interior Design, Architecture, or a related field is considered an asset, providing a strong foundation for design problem-solving and client consultation.

Experience:

• Proven experience in a retail sales environment, with a demonstrated ability to consistently meet and exceed sales targets, preferably in a commission-based structure.
• Experience in managing retail operations, including the use of Point of Sale (POS) systems, inventory management basics, and customer relationship management (CRM) principles.
• A minimum of 2-5 years of direct sales or client-facing advisory experience is expected, with a track record of successful client engagement and relationship building.

Required Skills:

• Retail Sales & Commission Acumen: Proven ability to drive sales, understand commission structures, and consistently achieve revenue targets.
• Design Sensibility & Visualization: Strong creative thinking, excellent design instincts, and the ability to translate client needs into compelling design solutions using visual aids.
• Customer Consultation & Relationship Management: Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills to build rapport, actively listen, and provide personalized client experiences.
• Proficiency in Retail Systems: Competency in using Point of Sale (POS) systems, Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook), and familiarity with CRM functionalities.
• Self-Motivation & Organization: Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, prioritize tasks, and maintain a proactive approach to sales and client management.

Preferred Skills:

• 2D/3D Floor Planning Software: Experience with software used for creating floor plans and visual representations of spaces.
• Mood Board Creation: Skill in developing mood boards to communicate design concepts and aesthetic direction.
• Formal Design Education: A degree or diploma in Interior Design, Fashion Merchandising, or a related creative field.
• Persuasive Communication: Highly developed persuasive communication skills to influence client decisions and close sales effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "2-5" experience level suggests a role that is beyond entry-level but not yet senior management, fitting a consultative individual contributor role. The emphasis on retail operations and systems proficiency indicates a need for practical, hands-on experience in managing the sales process.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Sales Track Record: Evidence of achieving and exceeding sales targets, ideally with examples of commission earnings and sales growth over time. This demonstrates your ability to drive revenue.
• Design Consultation Case Studies: Examples of client projects where you provided design solutions, showcasing your process from initial client needs assessment to final product selection. Include before-and-after scenarios if possible.
• Visual Design Examples: A collection of mood boards, 2D/3D floor plans, or space visualizations that highlight your design aesthetic and ability to communicate design concepts effectively.
• Client Testimonials/References: Letters of recommendation or client feedback that speaks to your consultative approach, customer service skills, and ability to foster strong relationships.

Process Documentation:

• Sales Process Flow: Documentation or description of your typical sales process, from initial client contact through to order placement and follow-up, emphasizing efficiency and client satisfaction.
• Design Consultation Methodology: Outline how you structure and conduct design consultations, including your approach to needs assessment, space planning, and product selection.
• System Usage Examples: Brief descriptions or screenshots (if permissible) illustrating your proficiency with POS systems, CRM tools, or other relevant retail management software.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated, a "Design Consultant" role in a retail environment often benefits from a portfolio that visually demonstrates design capabilities and a sales track record that quantifies revenue-generating success. This is crucial for showcasing both client engagement and business impact.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry standards for Design Consultants in Winnipeg, Manitoba, with 2-5 years of experience and a commission-based sales component, the estimated annual salary range is CAD $45,000 - $65,000. This includes a base salary and potential commission earnings.
• The final salary offer will be determined by experience, qualifications, and the specific commission structure provided by EQ3.

Benefits:

• Paid Time Off: Generous paid time off, allowing for work-life balance and personal rejuvenation.
• Flexibility: Opportunities for flexible scheduling within the operational needs of the retail store.
• Competitive Compensation: A compensation package that includes a competitive base salary and an attractive commission structure.
• Comprehensive Benefit Packages: Access to health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as other wellness-related benefits.
• Employee Discount Program: Significant discounts on EQ3 products, enhancing the employee's ability to enjoy the company's offerings.
• Wellness Plans: Support for employee well-being through various wellness initiatives and programs.
• Group Banking: Potential benefits through group banking arrangements.

Working Hours:

• This is a full-time position, typically requiring approximately 40 hours per week. Working hours will include weekdays, weekends, and potentially evenings, depending on store operational needs and client consultation schedules. Flexibility is expected to accommodate the retail environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on common compensation structures for sales-focused retail roles with design responsibilities in Canada. The inclusion of commission is a significant factor in the overall earning potential.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Furniture & Home Goods Retail. EQ3 operates within the competitive home furnishings market, emphasizing timeless design, quality craftsmanship, and sustainability. Company Size: EQ3 is a well-established Canadian retailer with multiple locations, indicating a structured corporate environment that supports growth and professional development. The team size in a specific store like Winnipeg would likely range from a store manager, assistant manager, sales associates, and potentially support staff. Founded: EQ3 was founded with a mission to create furniture that lasts, moving away from fast-fashion trends and focusing on heirloom quality. This suggests a company culture that values longevity, thoughtful design, and enduring quality in both its products and its employee relationships.

Team Structure:

• The Design Consultant will likely report to a Store Manager or Retail Manager, who oversees the overall performance of the retail location.
• They will be part of a retail sales team, working alongside other sales associates and potentially design specialists.
• Collaboration is expected with other departments, such as merchandising, operations, and customer service, to ensure a cohesive client experience and smooth order fulfillment.

Methodology:

• Client-Centric Approach: EQ3's philosophy emphasizes incorporating diverse voices and choices to find creative solutions, suggesting a collaborative problem-solving approach that prioritizes client needs and preferences.
• Data-Informed Decisions: While not explicitly stated, retail environments typically rely on sales data, customer feedback, and performance metrics to inform strategies for sales, merchandising, and client engagement.
• Process Improvement: The company's focus on innovation implies an openness to refining processes to enhance efficiency, customer satisfaction, and overall business performance.

Company Website: https://www.eq3.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: EQ3's emphasis on "timeless designs" and "heirlooms" suggests a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction that extends beyond transactional sales. This company culture likely values employees who can embody these principles in their client interactions and design recommendations.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an individual contributor within the retail operations and sales framework. It represents an entry to mid-level opportunity for individuals looking to build a career in retail sales, client consulting, and interior design application. The focus is on direct client interaction and sales performance. Reporting Structure: The Design Consultant will typically report to a Store Manager or Retail Manager. This structure allows for direct oversight of sales performance, client engagement, and adherence to company operational standards. Collaboration with peers within the sales team is also a key aspect of the daily work environment. Operations Impact: The Design Consultant directly impacts revenue generation through sales and commission. Their ability to provide excellent design solutions and customer service influences client satisfaction, repeat business, and brand loyalty, all of which are critical operational metrics for a retail business. Effective management of the sales process and order tracking also contributes to operational efficiency and customer retention.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Design Consultant/Specialist: Progression to a more senior role with increased responsibility, potentially specializing in specific product categories or client segments, or mentoring junior staff.
• Sales Management: Opportunities to move into leadership roles such as Assistant Store Manager or Store Manager, overseeing a team and managing store operations and sales performance.
• Merchandising or Visual Display: Potential to transition into roles focused on product presentation, store layout, and visual merchandising, leveraging design skills in a different capacity.
• E-commerce/Online Sales Support: As retail evolves, there may be opportunities to support or specialize in online sales channels, providing virtual design consultations and managing e-commerce client interactions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path in retail operations often involves a progression from direct sales to leadership or specialization. This role provides a solid foundation for developing client relationship management, sales strategy, and operational execution skills that are transferable across various retail functions.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The work environment is a retail showroom setting. This means a customer-facing space designed to showcase EQ3's furniture and home decor products, requiring a professional, aesthetically pleasing, and organized presentation. Office Location(s): The position is based at the EQ3 store located at 1485 Portage Avenue in Winnipeg, Manitoba. This location serves as the primary base for client consultations, sales activities, and store operations.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Showroom: The showroom environment encourages interaction with colleagues and clients, fostering a dynamic and engaging workspace.
• Product-Focused: The workspace is centered around EQ3's product lines, requiring the consultant to be knowledgeable about and comfortable with the merchandise.
• Client Interaction Hub: The showroom serves as the primary location for client meetings, design consultations, and sales transactions, requiring a professional and welcoming atmosphere.
• Tool Accessibility: Access to design tools (computers with software, sample materials) and retail systems (POS, inventory lookup) is integral to daily tasks.

Work Schedule:

• This is a full-time role, approximately 40 hours per week. The schedule will be varied, including weekdays, weekends, and potentially evenings, to align with store operating hours and customer availability. Flexibility is key to accommodate client needs and sales objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The retail showroom environment is highly interactive and client-focused. The success of a Design Consultant in this setting relies on their ability to create a positive and inspiring experience for customers within the physical store space.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess qualifications and experience against the job requirements. Candidates with relevant retail sales and design experience will be prioritized.
• First Interview (Phone/Video): A discussion with a hiring manager or HR representative to delve into your background, motivations, and understanding of the role. Expect questions about your sales experience, design approach, and customer service philosophy.
• In-Person Interview/Showroom Visit: If selected, you may be invited for an in-person interview at the Winnipeg store. This may include a practical assessment or a scenario-based discussion where you explain your design process or handle a mock client interaction.
• Portfolio Review: Be prepared to present your portfolio showcasing design work, sales achievements, and client testimonials. This is a crucial step to demonstrate your capabilities.
• Final Interview/Offer: A final discussion with key stakeholders to confirm fit and extend an offer of employment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Achievements: For sales roles, always quantify your successes. Instead of "Increased sales," say "Increased personal sales by 15% in Q3 2024, exceeding targets by 5%."
• Showcase Design Process: For design projects, clearly outline your process: Needs assessment -> Research/Concept Development -> Design Solution (floor plans, mood boards) -> Client Presentation -> Implementation/Refinement.
• Highlight Client Interaction: Include examples of how you've managed challenging client requests or built strong, lasting relationships. Client testimonials are invaluable here.
• Tailor to EQ3: Research EQ3's brand, design aesthetic, and target market. Ensure your portfolio examples align with their style and values.
• Conciseness and Clarity: Organize your portfolio logically and present information clearly and concisely. Focus on the most impactful projects and achievements.

Challenge Preparation:

• Sales Scenario: Be ready to discuss how you would approach a client who is hesitant about pricing or needs help visualizing a space.
• Design Challenge: You might be asked to propose a design concept for a specific room or scenario, demonstrating your ability to work within constraints and client needs.
• Objection Handling: Prepare responses for common sales objections related to price, style, or decision-making.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a role like this will likely assess both sales aptitude and design sensibility. A strong portfolio that bridges these two aspects will be critical for success. Demonstrating an understanding of retail operations and client relationship management will also be key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Point of Sale (POS) System: Essential for processing transactions, managing customer data, and tracking sales. Proficiency with a modern POS system is expected.
• Microsoft Office Suite:
  • Word: For client communication, order details, and internal documentation.
  • Excel: For tracking sales performance, managing client lists, and basic data analysis.
  • Outlook: For scheduling consultations, communicating with clients and colleagues, and managing email correspondence.
• CRM Software (Potentially): While not explicitly mentioned, many retailers use CRM systems to manage customer interactions, track sales pipelines, and nurture leads. Familiarity with CRM principles is beneficial.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Performance Dashboards: Ability to interpret and utilize data from POS or internal reporting systems to monitor personal sales metrics, identify trends, and understand performance against targets.
• Inventory Management Systems: Basic understanding of how to check product availability and status within the company's inventory system.

CRM & Automation:

• Client Relationship Management: The role inherently involves managing client relationships, requiring skills in communication, follow-up, and personalized service.
• Order Management Systems: Familiarity with systems used to place, track, and manage customer orders from placement to delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: The mention of "retail operations and systems (POS, Microsoft Office)" is direct. While advanced analytics tools might not be the primary focus for this specific role, understanding how to leverage sales data from these systems for personal performance improvement is crucial.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Client-Centricity: A core value likely focused on understanding and exceeding client expectations, ensuring satisfaction and building long-term relationships.
• Design Excellence: A commitment to quality design, aesthetic appeal, and functional home solutions, reflecting EQ3's brand identity.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where team members work together to achieve store goals and provide seamless customer service.
• Accountability & Performance: Emphasizing personal responsibility for sales targets, client satisfaction, and operational standards.
• Innovation & Creativity: Encouraging creative problem-solving and fresh perspectives to enhance the client experience and drive business success.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Working closely with store management, sales colleagues, and potentially visual merchandising teams to ensure a cohesive showroom experience and efficient operations.
• Client-Focused Partnerships: Collaborating with clients to co-create design solutions, acting as a trusted advisor throughout their purchase journey.
• Feedback Exchange: A culture that likely encourages open communication and feedback among team members to continuously improve sales techniques and customer service delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: EQ3's stated value of "incorporating more voices and choices" suggests a culture that is open to diverse perspectives and collaborative problem-solving, which would apply to both internal team dynamics and client interactions.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Meeting Sales Targets: Consistently achieving commission-based sales goals in a competitive retail market requires strong sales skills, resilience, and effective client management.
• Balancing Design and Sales: Effectively merging creative design consultation with the practicalities of sales targets and client budgets can be a delicate balance.
• Client Visualization: Helping clients visualize how products will fit into their homes and lifestyle requires strong communication and visualization skills, especially for those who struggle to see the end result.
• Adapting to Trends: Staying current with design trends while also adhering to EQ3's timeless aesthetic and product offerings.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Product Knowledge Expansion: Deepening expertise in EQ3's product lines, materials, and design principles.
• Sales & Negotiation Skills: Opportunities to refine sales techniques, negotiation strategies, and closing skills.
• Design Software Proficiency: Enhancing skills in 2D/3D design software and visualization tools.
• Client Relationship Management: Developing advanced strategies for building and maintaining client loyalty.
• Retail Management Training: Potential pathways for training in store operations, team leadership, and merchandising.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenge will be consistently driving sales in a consultative environment. Growth opportunities are tied to mastering both the sales process and the art of design consultation, leading to potential advancement within the retail leadership or specialized design tracks.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Sales Approach: "Describe your approach to selling in a retail environment, especially when working on commission. How do you maintain motivation and ensure consistent performance?" (Focus on consultative selling, relationship building, and proactive client engagement.)
• Design Consultation Process: "Walk me through how you would typically conduct a design consultation for a client looking to furnish a living room. What questions would you ask, and what tools would you use?" (Highlight active listening, needs assessment, and visualization techniques.)
• Handling Objections: "Imagine a client loves a piece but is hesitant about the price. How would you address their concern while reinforcing the value and quality of the product?" (Prepare responses that focus on value proposition, financing options, and design benefits.)
• Teamwork in Retail: "How do you contribute to a positive and productive team environment in a retail setting? Give an example of a time you collaborated with colleagues to achieve a common goal." (Emphasize communication, support, and shared objectives.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• Brand Alignment: "What appeals to you about EQ3's brand and design philosophy? How do you see yourself fitting into our culture?" (Research EQ3's mission, values, and product aesthetic.)
• Customer Service Philosophy: "Describe your ideal customer experience. What steps do you take to ensure a client feels valued and satisfied?" (Focus on personalized service, attentiveness, and problem-solving.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: For each portfolio piece, tell a brief story: the client's initial need, your design solution, and the positive outcome (e.g., client satisfaction, successful sale).
• Visual Impact: Ensure your visual aids (mood boards, floor plans) are clear, professional, and well-organized.
• Quantify Results: If possible, highlight any sales figures or client growth associated with your design work.
• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your portfolio efficiently, focusing on the most relevant and impactful examples.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for a candidate who can seamlessly blend sales expertise with design acumen, client empathy, and an understanding of retail operations. Be prepared to demonstrate how your skills directly contribute to revenue generation and customer satisfaction.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your complete application through the "Apply to Position" link provided.
• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a portfolio that clearly showcases your retail sales achievements (quantified results, commission history) and your design consultation process (mood boards, floor plans, client case studies). Tailor examples to reflect EQ3's brand aesthetic where possible.
• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume highlights relevant experience in retail sales, commission-based environments, customer service, and proficiency with POS systems and Microsoft Office. Use keywords from the job description.
• Interview Practice: Prepare for interview questions by practicing your responses to common sales, design, and customer service scenarios. Rehearse your portfolio presentation, focusing on storytelling and quantifiable results.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research EQ3's brand, product lines, design philosophy, and recent company news. Understand their market position and target customer to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural fit.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with EQ3 before making application decisions.