Design Consultant

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Consultant

Company: HOM FURNITURE

Location: 204 17th Ave. NW, Rochester, MN 55901, United States

Job Type: Full Time / Part Time

Category: Sales Operations / GTM (Go-To-Market) - Customer Facing

Date Posted: February 28, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is crucial for driving revenue through direct customer engagement, focusing on in-home design consultations and sales closures within the home furnishings sector.

• The Design Consultant will act as a key GTM asset, translating customer needs into actionable design solutions and driving sales pipeline growth.

• Success in this role relies on a blend of sales acumen, design expertise, and exceptional customer relationship management, directly impacting top-line revenue.

• This position offers a unique opportunity to leverage design skills in a commission-based sales environment, contributing significantly to the company's revenue objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Design Consultant," the emphasis on "in-home design services and sales expertise," "high commission potential," and "big ticket top writer commission sales experience preferred" strongly indicates this role functions within a Go-To-Market (GTM) and Sales Operations context, focused on direct revenue generation and customer acquisition. The combination of design and sales expertise is a common GTM strategy for high-value consumer goods.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct personalized in-home design consultations, assessing customer needs, style preferences, and spatial requirements to propose tailored furniture solutions.

• Develop comprehensive, customized design plans, including space planning, furniture selection, and accessory recommendations, to meet and exceed customer expectations.

• Actively engage in the full sales cycle, from initial consultation and needs assessment to closing the sale, upselling, and cross-selling relevant products.

• Build and nurture strong, long-term customer relationships through exceptional service, follow-up, and proactive communication, fostering loyalty and repeat business.

• Collaborate with internal teams, such as sales management and operations, to ensure seamless order processing, delivery, and post-sale customer satisfaction.

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of HOM Furniture's product catalog, design trends, and sales solutions to effectively advise customers and drive sales performance.

• Participate in showroom maintenance and light cleaning duties as needed, ensuring a professional and inviting presentation of products and services.

• Leverage company technology and sales tools to manage customer interactions, track sales progress, and optimize the in-home design and sales process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly outline a customer-facing sales role with a design component. The emphasis on "personalized sales consultations from start to finish," "closing the sale," and "driving sales performance" aligns with GTM and sales enablement functions. The need to "leverage company technology and sales tools" points to the operational aspect of sales execution.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or GED required.

Experience:

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

• Proven experience in "big ticket" commission sales is highly preferred (e.g., home furnishings, automotive, RVs, appliances). This demonstrates an understanding of consultative selling for high-value items.

Required Skills:

• In-Home Sales & Consultation: Ability to conduct effective sales presentations and consultations within a customer's home environment.

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): Skills in building rapport, understanding customer needs, and fostering long-term client relationships.

• Sales Acumen: Proficiency in consultative selling techniques, objection handling, and closing strategies for high-value products.

• Design Sensibility: A keen eye for aesthetics, color, and space planning, with the ability to translate customer preferences into functional and appealing designs.

• Verbal & Written Communication: Excellent interpersonal skills for clear, persuasive communication with customers and internal teams.

• Time Management & Organization: Ability to manage a schedule of in-home appointments, follow-up tasks, and project details efficiently.

Preferred Skills:

• Product Knowledge: Familiarity with furniture, home décor, and interior design principles.

• Sales Technology Proficiency: Experience using CRM software, design visualization tools, or sales enablement platforms.

• Project Management: Ability to manage the end-to-end customer journey from initial sale to potential delivery coordination.

• Negotiation Skills: Ability to effectively negotiate terms and pricing within established guidelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "preferred" skills highlight areas that would make a candidate exceptionally strong for a GTM role. "Sales Technology Proficiency" is key for integrating with sales operations, and "Product Knowledge" directly supports the sales consultation aspect. The experience requirement for "big ticket" sales is a strong indicator of the role's revenue-generating focus.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 diverse in-home design projects, demonstrating the ability to tailor solutions to varied customer needs and styles.

• Include visual examples of room layouts, mood boards, 3D renderings (if applicable), and final project outcomes to illustrate design capabilities.

• Highlight specific customer challenges addressed and how your design solutions contributed to their satisfaction and purchase decisions.

Process Documentation:

• Be prepared to discuss your personal sales process for in-home consultations, from initial contact to post-sale follow-up.

• Demonstrate understanding of how to integrate design recommendations with sales objectives, aiming for both aesthetic appeal and commercial success.

• Explain how you utilize technology (e.g., CRM, design software) to streamline your workflow, manage client data, and track sales progress.

• Articulate how you would handle common sales objections or design challenges encountered during in-home consultations.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role combining design and sales, a portfolio is critical. It needs to demonstrate not just design talent but also the ability to translate that talent into revenue. The emphasis on "customer challenges addressed," "role in the sales process," and "closing the sale" ensures the portfolio aligns with GTM objectives. Discussing personal sales processes and technology integration is vital for understanding how the candidate fits into the company's operational framework.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Base Salary: $50,000 annually (during training period).

• Commission Potential: High commission structure allowing top producers to earn $75,000 - $100,000+ annually.

Benefits:

• Retirement: 401(k) with Employer Match.

• Employee Perks: Employee discounts on HOM Furniture products.

• Professional Development: Career advancement opportunities and comprehensive paid training.

• Pay Flexibility: Access to earned wages through "Pay on Demand" options.

• Full-Time Benefits:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision, and Prescription Insurance.
  • Life Insurance.

Working Hours:

• Full-Time: Approximately 40 hours per week.

• Part-Time: Up to 28 hours per week.

• Flexible scheduling options, including custom weekend and evening hours, are available to accommodate in-home appointments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The compensation structure is a hybrid model, common in sales roles, combining a base salary with significant commission potential. This aligns with a GTM strategy where sales performance directly drives earnings. The "Pay on Demand" benefit is a modern perk that can aid in cash flow management for commissioned employees. The flexibility in working hours is crucial for an in-home sales role, requiring consultants to be available when customers are.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Home Furnishings Retail. HOM Furniture operates within a competitive retail landscape, emphasizing customer experience and design services to differentiate itself.

Company Size: Not explicitly stated, but the range of benefits and structured training suggests a medium to large organization with established operational processes.

Founded: Not explicitly stated, but the mention of "green initiatives" and "charitable events" implies a company with established values and a commitment to corporate social responsibility.

Team Structure:

• The Design Consultant will likely be part of a larger sales team, reporting to a Sales Manager or Showroom Manager.

• Collaboration will occur with fellow Design Consultants, sales associates, and potentially with operations or customer service teams for order fulfillment.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Sales: While design-focused, the emphasis on commission and "top producers" suggests that sales performance metrics are closely monitored and drive success. Sales Operations likely provides data insights on customer trends and product performance.

• Customer-Centric Operations: The core of the role is delivering exceptional customer service through in-home consultations, indicating a company-wide focus on customer satisfaction throughout the GTM and post-sale journey.

• Process Optimization: The mention of "using HOM’s technology to enhance the in-home design and sales process" points to an ongoing effort to refine workflows for efficiency and effectiveness.

Company Website: homfurniture.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding the company's industry and culture is vital for aligning with their GTM strategy. The home furnishings sector often relies on visual appeal, strong customer service, and consultative selling. The "green initiatives" and "charitable events" suggest a company that values community and sustainability, which can be leveraged in customer interactions.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is typically considered an entry to mid-level sales position within the GTM structure. It requires developing specialized skills in both design and direct sales.

Reporting Structure: Design Consultants typically report to a Sales Manager or Store Manager, who oversees sales performance, team coordination, and operational execution within their designated area.

Operations Impact: The Design Consultant is a direct revenue driver. Their ability to close sales and build customer loyalty directly impacts the company's top-line revenue and market share. Effective consultation and sales execution contribute to efficient inventory turnover and customer satisfaction metrics managed by operations.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Design Consultant: Progression to a senior role with increased responsibility, potentially mentoring junior consultants, handling more complex projects, or specializing in specific product lines.

• Sales Management: Advancement into sales leadership positions, such as Sales Manager or Showroom Manager, overseeing a team of consultants and driving overall sales performance.

• Specialized Design Roles: Opportunities to move into more specialized design roles, such as kitchen and bath design or commercial design, depending on company structure and individual aptitude.

• Sales Operations/Enablement: With a strong understanding of sales processes and technology, potential to transition into sales operations roles focused on improving sales efficiency, training, or technology implementation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path highlights a clear progression within sales and GTM functions. The mention of potential transition into "Sales Operations/Enablement" underscores the operational relevance of this role. A candidate demonstrating strong process understanding and data literacy could leverage this role as a stepping stone into operational support for sales.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Primarily an in-home and showroom-based role. The "Design Consultant" will spend significant time traveling to customer residences and potentially working from a retail showroom.

Office Location(s): The primary on-site location is Rochester, Minnesota, with travel expected within the surrounding service area.

Workspace Context:

• In-Home Environment: The consultant's "workspace" is the customer's home, requiring adaptability, professionalism, and the ability to visualize designs within existing spaces.

• Showroom Environment: When in the showroom, the workspace may involve product displays, consultation areas, and access to company technology and resources.

• Technology Integration: The role relies on using company-provided technology for design visualization, sales tracking, and customer communication, fostering a tech-enabled work environment.

Work Schedule:

• Flexible scheduling is a key feature, with options for full-time (40 hours) or part-time (up to 28 hours).

• Custom scheduling, including evenings and weekends, is expected to accommodate customer availability, which is typical for roles focused on direct sales and customer service in the retail sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is highly dynamic, blending in-home client interaction with showroom presence. This requires excellent personal organization and time management, crucial operational skills for managing a mobile sales force. The flexibility in scheduling is a practical necessity for maximizing customer reach in this GTM role.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess qualifications, experience, and alignment with the role's requirements, particularly in customer service and sales.

• First Interview (Phone/Video): A discussion focusing on your sales experience, customer service philosophy, and initial understanding of design principles. Expect questions about handling customer interactions and closing sales.

• In-Home Simulation/Case Study: You may be asked to present a mock in-home consultation or design proposal, either live or as a prepared presentation. This assesses your design thinking, sales approach, and communication skills.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session to present your design portfolio. Be prepared to walk through your projects, explaining your design process, client collaboration, and the sales outcomes.

• Final Interview: Likely with a Sales Manager or senior leader, focusing on cultural fit, long-term career aspirations, and a final assessment of your sales potential and operational readiness.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Sales Impact: For each project, clearly articulate your role in the sales process, the value you provided to the customer, and the resulting sale. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., average sale value, conversion rates).

• Showcase Process: Explain your step-by-step approach to in-home consultations, from initial discovery to final proposal and closing. Demonstrate how you manage customer expectations and build trust.

• Visual Clarity: Ensure your portfolio is visually appealing and easy to navigate. Use high-quality images and clear descriptions. Organize projects logically by style, scope, or client type.

• Tailor to HOM Furniture: If possible, showcase projects that align with the style and price point of HOM Furniture's offerings. Mention how your skills can benefit their specific customer base.

Challenge Preparation:

• Sales Scenario Practice: Prepare for scenarios where you might need to handle objections, upsell products, or differentiate HOM Furniture from competitors.

• Design Problem-Solving: Be ready to discuss how you would approach a design challenge given specific room constraints, a customer's budget, or conflicting style preferences.

• Technology Proficiency: Be prepared to discuss your familiarity with design software, CRM systems, or any sales enablement tools you've used.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process emphasizes practical application of skills, particularly in sales scenarios and portfolio presentation. A strong portfolio that bridges design and sales impact, coupled with a clear understanding of the sales process, will be critical. Preparing for specific sales challenges and demonstrating technological aptitude will align the candidate with operational expectations.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM System: Likely a customer relationship management system (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot, or a proprietary system) for managing leads, customer interactions, sales pipelines, and follow-ups. Proficiency in CRM usage is essential for sales operations.

• Design Software: Tools for creating design plans, space layouts, and potentially 3D visualizations (e.g., SketchUp, AutoCAD, Chief Architect, or specialized furniture design software).

• Sales Enablement Tools: Platforms or software that provide sales collateral, product information, pricing tools, and communication templates to support the sales process.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Performance Dashboards: Familiarity with reviewing personal sales performance metrics, conversion rates, average deal size, and commission tracking, often presented through internal dashboards.

• Productivity Tools: Standard office suite tools (e.g., Microsoft Office, Google Workspace) for communication, documentation, and basic data analysis.

CRM & Automation:

• Communication Platforms: Email clients, messaging apps (e.g., Slack, Teams), and potentially phone systems for customer and internal communication.

• Potential for Automation: While not explicitly stated, understanding how CRM and sales tools can automate tasks like follow-up reminders or lead assignments is beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with CRM systems is paramount for any sales-related role within an operational framework. The role also requires familiarity with design software and potentially sales enablement tools, indicating a tech-forward approach to GTM execution. Understanding how these tools integrate to support the sales process is key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Centricity: A core value focused on understanding and meeting customer needs through exceptional service and personalized design solutions, driving customer satisfaction and loyalty.

• Sales Excellence: A drive for achieving and exceeding sales targets through effective consultation, negotiation, and closing techniques, contributing directly to revenue growth.

• Collaboration: Working effectively with team members, management, and potentially operations staff to ensure a seamless customer experience from sale to delivery.

• Continuous Improvement: A commitment to refining sales techniques, design skills, and process efficiency through ongoing training and adaptation to market trends.

• Integrity: Upholding ethical sales practices and maintaining honesty and transparency in all customer interactions.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional: Will likely collaborate with sales managers for performance guidance, customer service for issue resolution, and potentially logistics/operations for delivery coordination.

• Peer-to-Peer: Sharing best practices, design ideas, and sales strategies with fellow Design Consultants to foster a supportive and learning-oriented sales team.

• Feedback-Driven: Openness to receiving constructive feedback on design proposals and sales approaches to enhance performance and customer outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values emphasize a blend of customer service, sales performance, and collaborative execution, all of which are critical for successful GTM operations. A candidate who demonstrates these values will integrate well into a team focused on driving revenue while maintaining high customer satisfaction.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Design and Sales: Effectively merging creative design expertise with the objective of driving sales and meeting revenue targets.

• In-Home Sales Environment: Navigating diverse customer homes, varying levels of client receptiveness, and managing personal safety and logistics during travel.

• Commission-Based Income Variability: Managing personal finances and motivation during periods of fluctuating sales performance.

• Staying Current: Continuously updating knowledge of product lines, design trends, and sales strategies in a dynamic market.

• Competition: Differentiating HOM Furniture and personal services from competitors in the home furnishings market.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific design styles, space planning, or advanced visualization techniques.

• Sales Skill Development: Training on advanced sales methodologies, negotiation, and consultative selling for high-ticket items.

• Product Knowledge Expansion: In-depth training on new product lines, materials, and features to enhance sales conversations.

• Technology Adoption: Learning to effectively use new sales and design software as implemented by the company.

• Career Path Exploration: Guidance and support for advancing into senior sales roles, management, or specialized GTM functions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Recognizing and preparing for these challenges is key. The growth opportunities highlight that HOM Furniture invests in its employees' development, which is crucial for retaining talent in sales and GTM roles. This shows an organization committed to employee progression and skill enhancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to an in-home design consultation. How do you balance understanding the client's needs with showcasing our product offerings?" (Focus on structured consultation, active listening, and product integration.)

• "Walk me through a challenging sale you closed. What were the obstacles, and how did you overcome them?" (Prepare a STAR method answer highlighting problem-solving, negotiation, and closing skills.)

• "How do you stay updated on interior design trends, and how do you incorporate them into your sales approach?" (Showcase continuous learning and ability to apply trends to customer needs.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about HOM Furniture, and why do you think you'd be a good fit for our company culture?" (Research HOM's mission, values, and recent initiatives. Align your skills and aspirations with their culture.)

• "How do you handle feedback on your design proposals or sales approach?" (Emphasize openness to constructive criticism and a desire for continuous improvement.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Quantify Impact: For each project, state the sale value, your role, and the customer's satisfaction level. Use metrics like "Increased average sale value by X%" or "Successfully closed Y% of consultations."

• Tell a Story: Frame your projects as narratives – the client's initial problem, your design solution, the sales process, and the successful outcome.

• Showcase Process: Clearly articulate your step-by-step approach from initial client contact through design and sale.

• Visuals are Key: Use high-quality images, floor plans, and mood boards. Be prepared to explain your design choices and how they met the client's needs and budget.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of design creativity, sales effectiveness, and an understanding of operational efficiency in managing the sales process. The STAR method is ideal for behavioral questions. Practicing portfolio presentations is crucial for conveying your value proposition effectively.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Consultant position:

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

• Portfolio Customization: Prepare a digital portfolio that highlights 3-5 of your best in-home design projects. Ensure each project clearly demonstrates your design process, customer engagement, and sales success. Focus on projects that align with HOM Furniture's product offerings and customer base.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize your experience in customer service, commission-based sales, and any design-related qualifications. Use keywords from the job description such as "in-home sales," "design consultation," "customer relationship management," and "closing sales." Quantify achievements whenever possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice answering common sales and design interview questions. Prepare to discuss your sales process, handle objections, and present your portfolio confidently. Research HOM Furniture's products, values, and current marketing initiatives.

• Company Research: Gain a thorough understanding of HOM Furniture's market position, product lines, and company culture. Be prepared to articulate why you are a strong cultural fit and how your skills will contribute to their GTM success.

⚠️ 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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