Design Consultant

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Consultant

Company: HOM FURNITURE

Location: Brooklyn Center, Minnesota, United States

Job Type: Full-Time, Part-Time

Category: Sales Operations / GTM Enablement (Client-Facing Sales Support)

Date Posted: March 18, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on driving revenue through exceptional client-facing sales support and in-home design consultation, acting as a key touchpoint in the customer journey.

• The position requires a blend of sales acumen, design expertise, and robust customer relationship management to achieve sales targets and foster client loyalty.

• Success will be measured by commission attainment, customer satisfaction scores, and the ability to effectively leverage design solutions to close sales.

• This role is integral to the Go-To-Market strategy, directly impacting sales conversion rates and customer lifetime value through personalized client engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Design Consultant," the responsibilities and compensation structure (guaranteed against commission, high earning potential) strongly indicate a sales-oriented role with a design specialization. The emphasis on "big ticket top writer commission sales experience" and "sales solution approach" positions this within a GTM and Sales Operations context, focusing on the client-facing execution of sales strategy.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Engage with customers to understand their style preferences, functional needs, and budget through consultative in-home and in-store design consultations.

• Develop customized floor plans and select appropriate styles, colors, and materials to create compelling home furnishing solutions that meet customer requirements.

• Utilize a deep understanding of HOM Furniture's product catalog to recommend high-quality, well-crafted items that align with design proposals and sales objectives.

• Manage the end-to-end sales cycle, from initial customer contact and needs assessment through to order processing, delivery coordination, and post-sale follow-up.

• Build and maintain strong, trust-based relationships with clients, positioning oneself as an expert and trusted advisor for their home furnishing needs.

• Achieve and exceed sales targets and commission goals through effective sales techniques, product knowledge, and superior customer service.

• Collaborate with internal teams, including delivery and installation, to ensure a seamless and positive customer experience from sale to fulfillment.

• Participate in maintaining showroom presentation, including price cards, and light cleaning duties to ensure an appealing sales environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities are framed around direct sales and customer engagement within a design context. This aligns with GTM roles that require client interaction and relationship management to drive revenue. The emphasis on "order processing and delivery management" and "project management" indicates a need for operational efficiency in managing the sales pipeline and customer fulfillment.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High School Diploma or GED required.

Experience:

• Minimum of 2 years of exceptional customer service experience is mandatory.

Required Skills:

• Exceptional Customer Service: Ability to provide world-class customer experiences and build rapport.

• Consultative Sales: Skill in understanding customer needs and providing tailored solutions.

• Design Acumen: Understanding of styles, colors, patterns, and space planning.

• Product Knowledge: Aptitude for quickly learning and articulating details about a wide range of home furnishings.

• Relationship Building: Ability to establish trust and long-term client relationships.

• Sales Process Management: Proficiency in managing a sales cycle from lead to close.

• Order Processing & Accuracy: Meticulous attention to detail in processing orders and managing deliveries.

Preferred Skills:

• In-Home Design Services: Experience providing design consultations in a client's home.

• Computer-Aided Design (CAD) or Design Software: Proficiency with manual or computerized room planning and design tools.

• Project Management: Ability to oversee complex projects from inception to completion.

• Commission-Based Sales Performance: Demonstrated success in commission-driven sales environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "preferred" skills like "In-Home Design Services" and "CAD/Design Software" point towards a specialized sales role that offers a value-added service. The "Big ticket top writer commission sales experience preferred" is a strong indicator of the performance expectations and compensation structure, aligning with high-performing sales roles within a GTM framework.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Sales Case Studies: Documented examples of successful sales engagements, particularly those involving complex client needs or significant purchase values, showcasing your ability to close deals and build rapport.

• Design Solution Examples: Visual documentation of past design projects, including floor plans, mood boards, or renderings, demonstrating your aesthetic sense and ability to translate client vision into tangible solutions.

• Customer Testimonials/Metrics: Evidence of exceptional customer service, such as positive reviews, testimonials, or quantifiable results like high customer satisfaction scores or repeat business.

• Process Flow Understanding: A clear articulation of your approach to managing a sales process from initial contact through to order fulfillment and follow-up, highlighting efficiency and customer-centricity.

Process Documentation:

• Sales Cycle Management: Ability to describe and execute a defined sales process, including lead qualification, needs assessment, proposal generation, negotiation, closing, and post-sale follow-up.

• Design Consultation Workflow: Documented steps for conducting effective in-home or in-store design consultations, from initial client brief to final design presentation and solution implementation.

• Order & Delivery Coordination: Understanding of the operational steps involved in accurately processing orders, managing inventory, coordinating deliveries, and ensuring customer satisfaction with the fulfillment process.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a sales-focused role with a design component, a portfolio would likely showcase successful sales outcomes and design capabilities. This section is inferred based on the need to demonstrate both sales effectiveness and design expertise in a client-facing capacity.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Hourly Base: $20 - $24 per hour (guaranteed against commissions).

• Training Period Salary: $50,000 annual salary.

• On-Target Earnings (OTE): Top producers can expect to earn $75,000 - $100,000+ annually through commissions and bonuses.

Benefits:

• For All Employees (Part-Time & Full-Time):

  • 401(k) Employee Contribution Plan with Employer Match (minimum 20 hours/week eligibility).
  • Generous Employee Discount on HOM Furniture products.
  • Discounts on computers, cell phone plans, and other services.
  • Career advancement opportunities and comprehensive paid training programs.
  • Paid Time Off (PTO).

• For Full-Time or Modified Full-Time (32+ hours/week):

  • Medical, Dental, Vision, and Prescription Insurance Plans.
  • Employer-paid Life Insurance.

Working Hours:

• Flexible scheduling options are available, including evening and weekend shifts, with set schedules determined based on employee preference and business needs.

• Full-Time: 40-hour schedule.

• Modified Full-Time: 32-36 hour schedule.

• Part-Time: Up to 28 hours per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary structure clearly indicates a commission-based sales role with a guaranteed draw and significant earning potential for high performers. The benefits package is tiered based on employment status, with comprehensive health benefits for full-time employees. The emphasis on flexible, set schedules is a key differentiator for work-life balance.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Retail (Home Furnishings)

Company Size: (Information not provided, but HOM Furniture is a significant regional retailer, suggesting a medium to large organization.)

Founded: (Information not provided, but HOM Furniture has a long-standing presence, indicating stability and established market position.)

Team Structure:

• The Design Consultant role likely operates within a retail sales team structure, reporting to a Sales Manager or Showroom Manager.

• Collaboration is expected with fellow sales consultants, design specialists, and potentially operations/fulfillment teams.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Sales: A primary methodology is providing world-class customer experiences through personalized service and tailored solutions.

• Data-Informed Design & Sales: While not explicitly stated, effective design consultants likely use customer preferences and sales data to inform their recommendations and strategies.

• Continuous Improvement: The company invests in "training programs and career pathing," indicating a commitment to employee development and process refinement.

• Sustainability Focus: HOM Furniture highlights "Green initiatives" such as solar power and recycling, suggesting a company culture that values environmental responsibility.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is described as driven, goal-oriented, and focused on serving others, with a strong emphasis on customer experience and employee development. The commitment to charity events and green initiatives suggests a socially conscious and community-focused organization, which can be a significant factor for candidate engagement.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents an entry to mid-level position within the GTM sales function, specifically focused on client-facing sales execution and design consultation. It requires a combination of sales skills and specialized design knowledge.

Reporting Structure: Design Consultants typically report to a Sales Manager or Showroom Manager who oversees daily sales operations, team performance, and customer engagement strategies.

Operations Impact: Design Consultants directly impact revenue generation by closing sales and driving customer acquisition. Their ability to provide exceptional design solutions and customer experiences contributes to customer retention, positive brand perception, and overall sales performance, thereby influencing the company's top-line growth.

Growth Opportunities:

• Sales Specialization: Advancement into senior Design Consultant roles, focusing on higher-value clients or specialized design areas.

• Sales Leadership: Progression to Sales Team Lead, Assistant Manager, or Showroom Manager positions, involving team management and strategic sales planning.

• Design Expertise: Opportunities to become a Senior Designer or specialize in commercial design projects.

• Training & Development: HOM Furniture offers paid training and career pathing, suggesting structured programs for skill enhancement and advancement within the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path outlined moves from individual contributor sales and design to potential management or specialized roles, supported by company-provided training. This is typical for retail sales environments that aim to retain talent by offering clear advancement opportunities.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is primarily based in a retail showroom environment, with a significant component of in-home client consultations.

Office Location(s): Brooklyn Center, Minnesota, with client visits potentially occurring within a defined service area around the showroom. Specific showroom addresses for Brooklyn Center are provided.

Workspace Context:

• Showroom: A dynamic retail space requiring consultants to be engaging, knowledgeable, and presentable. This environment facilitates direct customer interaction and product showcasing.

• In-Home Consultations: Requires the ability to work independently, travel to client residences, and adapt to various home environments for design assessments.

• Collaborative Atmosphere: The culture encourages team members to help each other succeed, fostering a supportive environment for sharing best practices and client insights.

Work Schedule: Flexible scheduling options are a key feature, allowing for set schedules that balance business needs with employee preferences, including evenings and weekends, which are critical for retail sales.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role (showroom and in-home) requires adaptability and strong time management. The emphasis on flexible yet set schedules is a significant draw for candidates seeking predictable work arrangements.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess qualifications against the requirements, with a focus on customer service and sales experience.

• First Interview: Likely a behavioral and skills-based interview with a Sales Manager or HR representative, focusing on customer service scenarios, sales approach, and design interest. Expect questions about your experience with commission sales and handling client objections.

• Second Interview/Design Assessment: May involve a practical exercise, such as a mock design consultation, presenting a portfolio of past work, or a scenario-based challenge to assess design thinking and sales pitch skills.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior manager to discuss cultural fit, long-term career aspirations, and finalize the offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Sales Success: Highlight any quantifiable sales achievements, such as exceeding targets or closing high-value deals. For past commission roles, be prepared to discuss your earnings potential and how you achieved it.

• Demonstrate Design Versatility: Include a range of design projects that showcase your ability to work with different styles, color palettes, and client needs. Visuals are key – use high-quality photos, renderings, or sketches.

• Explain Your Process: For each project, briefly explain the client's needs, your design approach, the challenges you faced, and the final solution. This demonstrates your problem-solving skills and client management capabilities.

• Emphasize Customer Focus: Include testimonials or examples that illustrate your commitment to exceptional customer service and building strong client relationships.

Challenge Preparation:

• Sales Pitch Practice: Prepare a concise and compelling sales pitch for a HOM Furniture product or service, focusing on benefits and value proposition.

• Design Scenario: Be ready to discuss how you would approach a design challenge for a hypothetical client with specific needs (e.g., small space, family-friendly, modern aesthetic).

• Objection Handling: Practice responding to common sales objections related to price, style, or decision-making.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to assess both sales capability and design aptitude. A strong portfolio is crucial for demonstrating practical skills and past successes, especially in a role that blends these two domains.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM System: HOM Furniture likely uses a CRM (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot, or a proprietary system) for managing customer interactions, tracking leads, and monitoring sales pipelines. Proficiency in CRM usage is essential for sales success.

• Design Software: While manual design skills are mentioned, computerized tools for room planning and design (e.g., SketchUp, AutoCAD LT, or specialized interior design software like Chief Architect or Home Designer) are likely utilized or preferred.

• Point of Sale (POS) / Order Management System: Essential for processing sales transactions, managing inventory, and tracking order fulfillment.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Performance Dashboards: Consultants will likely use or refer to dashboards that track their individual sales performance, commission earnings, and customer satisfaction metrics.

• Product Catalog Database: Access to and ability to navigate a comprehensive digital product catalog is crucial.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Communication Tools: Email, phone, and potentially messaging platforms for client interaction.

• Scheduling Software: For managing appointments, in-home consultations, and showroom availability.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tools are not listed, general industry knowledge of CRM, design software, and order management systems is expected for a role of this nature. The ability to learn and adapt to company-specific technology is critical.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: A paramount value, emphasizing "world-class customer experiences" and building relationships based on trust.

• Goal Orientation & Drive: The sales team is described as "highly driven" and "goal oriented," with a focus on achieving high earning potential.

• Collaboration & Support: The culture fosters an environment where team members "help each other succeed," promoting a supportive "HOM away from home" atmosphere.

• Integrity & Trust: Building relationships "based on trust and rapport" is fundamental to the consultant's role.

• Innovation & Sustainability: The company's commitment to "Green initiatives" suggests a value placed on forward-thinking and responsible business practices.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional: While primarily client-facing, collaboration with internal teams (e.g., operations, delivery) is essential for successful order fulfillment and customer satisfaction.

• Peer-to-Peer: Encouragement of mutual support and knowledge sharing among sales consultants.

• Customer-Centric: All interactions, whether internal or external, are likely driven by the goal of providing the best possible solution and experience for the customer.

📝 Enhancement Note: The described values highlight a blend of high-performance sales culture with a strong emphasis on customer service, teamwork, and corporate responsibility. This combination can attract candidates who are both ambitious and service-oriented.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales & Design: Effectively managing both the sales targets and the creative/technical demands of design consultation.

• Commission Variability: Navigating the fluctuations inherent in commission-based income, requiring consistent performance.

• Client Expectations: Meeting diverse and sometimes challenging client expectations regarding style, budget, and timeline.

• In-Home Logistics: Managing travel, scheduling, and the logistics of conducting consultations in various home environments.

• Staying Current: Keeping up-to-date with product lines, design trends, and sales techniques.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Paid Training: Comprehensive training provided by HOM Furniture covers product knowledge, sales techniques, design skills, and technology.

• Career Pathing: Structured opportunities for advancement into leadership or specialized roles within the sales or design departments.

• Mentorship: Potential for informal mentorship from experienced sales managers and top-performing consultants.

• Industry Exposure: Gaining deep knowledge of the home furnishings market and design principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a hybrid sales/design role, emphasizing the need for strong organizational skills and resilience. The company's investment in training and career pathing provides clear avenues for professional development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you successfully closed a high-value sale. What was your approach, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on commission sales experience, process, and results.)

• "How do you approach understanding a client's personal style and translating it into a design solution for their home?" (Prepare to discuss your design process and client needs assessment.)

• "Walk me through your process for handling a difficult customer or objection during a sales interaction." (Demonstrate problem-solving and customer service skills.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about HOM Furniture and our approach to customer service and design?" (Research the company's mission, values, and recent initiatives.)

• "How do you contribute to a positive team environment, and how do you handle collaboration with colleagues?" (Relate to the "HOM away from home" culture and team support.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Story: For each portfolio piece, frame it as a narrative: Client need -> Your solution -> Outcome (sales closed, customer satisfaction).

• Quantify Success: Wherever possible, include metrics – e.g., "This sale was 20% above target," or "Achieved a 95% customer satisfaction rating."

• Highlight Process: Explain your design methodology and sales approach, not just the final product.

• Be Concise and Engaging: Practice your presentation to be clear, confident, and within a reasonable timeframe.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of sales prowess, design sensibility, and customer-centricity. The portfolio is a critical tool for showcasing practical skills and past achievements.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Consultant position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the recruiting portal.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your customer service experience, any commission sales achievements (especially in "big ticket" items), and any design-related skills or projects. Quantify your successes wherever possible.

• Portfolio Preparation: Compile a digital portfolio showcasing successful sales interactions (if possible with anonymized details), design concepts, floor plans, or mood boards. Focus on demonstrating your ability to meet client needs and drive sales.

• Interview Practice: Prepare for behavioral questions by using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) and practice articulating your sales process and design approach. Research HOM Furniture's values and recent initiatives.

• Understand Compensation: Be clear on the commission structure and your earning potential, and be prepared to discuss your experience in commission-based roles.

⚠️ 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.

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