DESIGN_CONSULTANT

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Consultant Company: Bassett Furniture Location: Tyler, TX, United States Job Type: Full-Time Category: Sales / Retail / Design Date Posted: October 07, 2025 Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is a client-facing sales position focused on leveraging interior design passion and sales acumen to drive furniture and home décor revenue.
• The Design Consultant acts as a trusted advisor, guiding customers through the design process from initial consultation to final product selection, fostering long-term client relationships.
• It requires a blend of creative flair, sales execution, and a deep understanding of furniture construction and current design trends to translate customer needs into tangible design solutions.
• The position emphasizes a consultative sales approach, utilizing virtual and in-person appointments to maximize selling opportunities and achieve or exceed sales targets within a commission-based compensation structure.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Design Consultant," the core responsibilities and qualifications clearly indicate a sales-oriented role within a retail showroom environment, with a strong emphasis on consultative selling and relationship building. The "operations" aspect is derived from the need to manage client pipelines, track sales performance, and leverage company systems for client engagement and order processing, which are critical for efficient sales operations.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Build and maintain meaningful, long-term customer relationships through personalized interior design consultations and makeovers.
• Conduct comprehensive interior design consultations, actively listening to and translating customer needs, tastes, lifestyles, and investment ranges into effective design choices.
• Utilize extensive knowledge of furniture construction, design trends, color palettes, and fabric textures to present compelling product and design solutions.
• Drive sales performance by meeting and exceeding established sales goals through a relationship selling methodology.
• Manage a sales pipeline, including following up on leads, nurturing client relationships, and converting prospects into loyal customers.
• Engage customers effectively through various channels, including in-person showroom interactions, virtual appointments, and live chats.
• Create, present, and sell product and design solutions that align with customer requirements and company offerings.
• Drive to customers' residences and businesses for in-home or on-site design consultations and makeovers as needed.
• Maintain a polished image and professional demeanor, reflecting the Bassett brand and its commitment to quality and design excellence.
• Collaborate with showroom teams and management to ensure a seamless customer experience and contribute to overall store success.
• Actively participate in ongoing training programs to enhance product knowledge, sales techniques, and design skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The raw description highlights "selling opportunities" and "maximizing selling," which are core to sales operations. The responsibilities are framed around client engagement and sales conversion, directly impacting revenue generation.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• While no specific degree is mandated, a background or strong interest in Interior Design, Interior Architecture, or a related creative field is highly beneficial.
• Demonstrated ability to learn and apply new product knowledge and design principles through provided training is essential.

Experience:

• Proven track record of success in a sales environment, preferably in retail, furniture, or interior design, is required.
• Experience in a commission-based sales structure is advantageous.
• Experience with clienteling and building long-term customer relationships is a significant plus.

Required Skills:

• Passion for Design: A genuine enthusiasm for interior design, aesthetics, color theory, and current home décor trends.
• Sales Acumen: Strong ability to identify customer needs, present solutions, overcome objections, and close sales effectively.
• Exceptional Communication: Clear, concise, and persuasive verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate design concepts and product benefits.
• Interpersonal Skills: Friendly, outgoing, and approachable demeanor with a natural ability to build rapport and trust with diverse clientele.
• Listening Skills: Active listening capabilities to accurately understand and translate customer wants and needs into actionable design choices.
• Customer Focus: A dedication to providing an exceptional customer experience and building lasting client relationships.
• Self-Motivation & Drive: High level of intrinsic motivation to achieve sales targets and drive personal success in a commission environment.
• Computer Proficiency: Basic computer skills for utilizing sales systems, communication tools, and potentially design software.
• Adaptability: Ability to thrive in a dynamic retail environment with varied paces and client demands.
• Team Player: Willingness to be a supportive and collaborative member of the showroom team.
• Professionalism: A polished image and career-minded professionalism that aligns with a premium retail brand.

Preferred Skills:

• Color and Texture Coordination: Proven ability to discern and coordinate colors, textures, and materials effectively.
• Visual Merchandising Acumen: Understanding of how to present products appealingly in a showroom setting.
• Virtual Selling Tools: Experience with conducting virtual appointments and utilizing digital communication platforms for sales.
• Clienteling Systems: Familiarity with CRM or client management systems for tracking customer interactions and sales progress.
• Design Software Proficiency: Basic knowledge of interior design software or visualization tools.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "sales goals," "selling opportunities," and "commission-based compensation" strongly imply a need for sales operations support and metrics tracking. The "computer proficiency" and "virtual appointments" suggest integration with digital sales tools.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Sales Performance Documentation: Evidence of consistently meeting or exceeding sales targets in previous roles, ideally with quantifiable results (e.g., % to goal, average transaction value).
• Clienteling Case Studies: Examples of how you have built and maintained long-term customer relationships, including strategies for follow-up and customer retention.
• Design Consultation Examples: Visual or descriptive examples of design projects or consultations where you translated client needs into successful design outcomes. This could include mood boards, space plans, or product selections.
• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Demonstrations of how you have handled challenging customer situations or design dilemmas to achieve client satisfaction and secure sales.

Process Documentation:

• Sales Process Walkthrough: Ability to articulate your personal sales process, from initial customer engagement to closing the sale and post-sale follow-up.
• Client Needs Assessment Method: Detail your approach to understanding and documenting customer requirements, preferences, and budget constraints.
• Product Presentation Strategy: Outline how you present product features, benefits, and design solutions to customers, including how you address their specific needs.
• Post-Sale Follow-Up & Retention: Describe your methods for ensuring customer satisfaction after the sale and fostering repeat business.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal "operations portfolio" isn't explicitly requested, the emphasis on sales performance, clienteling, and consultative selling implies that candidates should be prepared to showcase their sales process and client management capabilities, which are key components of sales operations.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated Base + Commission: $70,000 - $105,000 per year (average for experienced consultants)
• Top Performers: Up to $135,000+ per year
• Structure: Commission-based compensation on written business, with potential for additional bonus opportunities.

Benefits:

• Paid training programs 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 vacation, sick leave, and personal days.
• Generous employee discounts on Bassett Furniture products.
• Opportunity to work in a state-of-the-art showroom.
• Clear opportunities for growth and advancement within the company.

Working Hours:

• Full-time position, typically requiring 40 hours per week.
• Willingness to work weekends and holidays is a job requirement, aligning with typical retail operating hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is provided directly in the job description, indicating a strong commission-based structure. This requires sales professionals to be highly motivated and capable of managing their own performance metrics, aligning with sales operations principles of performance management and revenue generation. The "40 hours" is standard, but the "weekends and holidays" are critical for retail operations planning.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Furniture Retail / Home Furnishings / Interior Design Services Company Size: Over 1,000 employees (Based on typical Bassett Furniture employment figures) Founded: 1902, with a rich heritage spanning over a century. Bassett Furniture Industries is a well-established and recognized brand in the American furniture market.

Team Structure:

• Showroom-Based: Design Consultants typically work within a specific Bassett Furniture showroom location.
• Sales Team: Part of a team of sales professionals, often including other Design Consultants, a Sales Manager, and potentially Design Specialists.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaboration with showroom management for operational tasks, inventory management, and customer service support. Interaction with delivery and logistics teams to ensure customer satisfaction.
• Reporting: Likely reports to a Showroom Manager or Sales Manager who oversees sales performance, training, and daily operations.

Methodology:

• Relationship Selling: Focus on building long-term customer loyalty through personalized service and design expertise.
• Consultative Approach: Guiding customers through a needs-discovery process to offer tailored solutions rather than just transactional sales.
• Data-Driven Clienteling: Utilizing customer information and sales history to personalize interactions and identify new opportunities.
• Continuous Learning: Emphasis on ongoing product training, design trend updates, and sales technique development.
• Customer Experience Focus: Prioritizing a positive and memorable experience for every customer, from initial contact to post-purchase.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's long history (since 1902) and reputation for quality custom furniture suggest a culture that values craftsmanship, customer trust, and long-term relationships. The emphasis on innovation in furniture retailing indicates a forward-thinking approach.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level:

• This role represents an entry-level to mid-level sales position within the retail operations framework. It requires foundational sales skills and a passion for design, with significant potential for growth based on performance and dedication. It sits within the "front-line" sales operations, directly impacting customer acquisition and revenue.

Reporting Structure:

• Design Consultants typically report to a Showroom Manager or Sales Manager. This structure allows for direct supervision, performance coaching, and operational oversight, ensuring alignment with company sales strategies and showroom operational efficiency.

Operations Impact:

• The primary impact of a Design Consultant is direct revenue generation through furniture sales. By fostering customer relationships and providing expert design advice, they contribute significantly to the company's sales targets, customer retention rates, and overall brand reputation. Their ability to effectively manage client interactions and sales processes directly influences the efficiency of the showroom's sales operations.

Growth Opportunities:

• Sales Specialization: Advance to Senior Design Consultant roles, taking on more complex projects or mentoring junior staff.
• Leadership Path: Progress into Showroom Management or Sales Management positions, overseeing teams and driving overall showroom performance and operational strategies.
• Design Expertise: Develop advanced interior design skills, potentially leading to specialized design roles or certifications within Bassett.
• Training & Development: Opportunities for continued education, including Bassett's Interior Design certification training, and participation in industry events.
• Cross-Functional Roles: Potential to move into roles related to visual merchandising, retail operations management, or even product development, leveraging their deep understanding of customer needs and market trends.

📝 Enhancement Note: The job description explicitly mentions "Opportunity for growth and advancement," indicating a structured career path. The progression from sales consultant to management is a common trajectory in retail operations, requiring development in leadership and operational oversight.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type:

• Primarily a retail showroom environment, designed to showcase furniture and inspire customers. This is a customer-facing, on-site role.

Office Location(s):

• The specific location for this role is Tyler, Texas. Bassett Furniture operates numerous showrooms across the United States.

Workspace Context:

• Showroom Floor: The primary workspace is the retail showroom, requiring mobility to assist customers, present products, and conduct design discussions.
• Design Stations/Workspaces: Dedicated areas for consultations, potentially equipped with design tools, fabric samples, and computer access for utilizing design software and sales systems.
• Collaborative Atmosphere: Working alongside a team of sales professionals and showroom staff, fostering a supportive and goal-oriented environment.
• Tools & Technology: Access to company-provided design resources, product catalogs, fabric sample libraries, and sales/CRM software.

Work Schedule:

• Full-time, typically 40 hours per week.
• Requires flexibility to work weekends and holidays, which are crucial periods for retail sales operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "State-of-the Art Showroom" and "varied paced retail environment" define the physical and operational context. The need to "drive to customers' residences and businesses" indicates a mobile component to the role, requiring efficient time management and travel planning, key aspects of field operations.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a review of the application and resume, potentially followed by a brief phone screen to assess basic qualifications and cultural fit.
• In-Person Interview: A more in-depth interview at the showroom, focusing on sales experience, design passion, communication skills, and problem-solving abilities. This may include a situational assessment.
• Design Challenge/Role Play: Candidates may be asked to present a design concept based on a hypothetical client scenario or engage in a role-play exercise simulating a customer consultation.
• Manager Interview: A final interview with the Showroom Manager or Regional Manager to discuss compensation, growth opportunities, and operational expectations.
• Reference Checks: Verification of previous employment and performance.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Achievements: For sales roles, present metrics clearly. "Increased sales by X%," "Exceeded quota by Y%," "Achieved average transaction value of $Z."
• Showcase Design Process: For design elements, include visual examples (if possible and appropriate), clearly explaining your thought process, how you addressed client needs, and the final outcome. This demonstrates your consultative approach.
• Highlight Clienteling Success: Provide examples of how you've built and maintained client relationships, detailing strategies for follow-up and retention.
• Demonstrate Problem-Solving: Be prepared to discuss how you've handled challenging customer situations or design dilemmas, emphasizing your ability to find solutions that satisfy both the client and business objectives.
• Tailor to Bassett: Research Bassett's brand, design aesthetic, and customer base. Frame your experience and portfolio items to show how you align with their specific market position and values.

Challenge Preparation:

• Sales Pitch Simulation: Practice presenting a product or a design solution concisely and persuasively. Focus on benefits and how they meet specific customer needs.
• Client Needs Assessment: Prepare to ask probing questions to uncover a client's true needs, budget, style preferences, and lifestyle.
• Handling Objections: Anticipate common customer objections (e.g., price, style, functionality) and prepare thoughtful, solution-oriented responses.
• Showroom Navigation: Be ready to discuss how you would guide a customer through the showroom, highlighting key products and design features.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "sales goals," "customer relationships," and "design solutions" suggests that interviewers will assess both sales execution and consultative skills. The "portfolio review" will likely focus on tangible evidence of sales success and design capability.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Point-of-Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing customer orders, and tracking sales data.
• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software: To manage client information, track interactions, schedule follow-ups, and nurture leads. (Specific CRM not named, but essential for effective clienteling).
• Design Software/Visualization Tools: Potentially internal Bassett software or industry-standard tools for creating mood boards, space plans, or 3D renderings to present design concepts.
• Communication Platforms: Email, phone systems, and potentially instant messaging or video conferencing tools for virtual appointments and internal communication.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Performance Dashboards: To monitor individual and showroom sales metrics, track progress against goals, and identify trends.
• CRM Reporting: To analyze customer data, sales pipeline status, and conversion rates.

CRM & Automation:

• Lead Management Systems: For tracking and assigning incoming customer inquiries.
• Automated Follow-Up Tools: Potentially within the CRM to schedule reminders for customer contact or send personalized communications.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tools aren't listed, the nature of the role—managing clients, tracking sales, and conducting virtual appointments—necessitates proficiency with CRM, POS, and communication technologies. These are foundational elements of sales operations technology stacks.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Centricity: A deep commitment to understanding and fulfilling customer needs, ensuring satisfaction through exceptional service and design expertise.
• Sales Excellence: A drive to achieve and exceed sales targets, embracing a performance-oriented culture where success is recognized and rewarded.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: A supportive environment where team members work together to achieve showroom goals and provide a cohesive customer experience.
• Design Passion: A shared enthusiasm for interior design, creativity, and helping customers create beautiful and functional living spaces.
• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding high ethical standards in all customer interactions and maintaining a polished, professional demeanor.
• Continuous Improvement: A dedication to ongoing learning, skill development, and adapting to new design trends and sales strategies.

Collaboration Style:

• Showroom Synergy: Fostering a collaborative atmosphere within the showroom, where team members assist each other, share knowledge, and work towards collective sales success.
• Customer Journey Focus: Collaborating with colleagues and management to ensure a seamless customer journey from initial inquiry through to delivery and beyond.
• Feedback Loop: Open to constructive feedback from peers and management to enhance individual performance and contribute to team growth.
• Shared Goal Orientation: Working collectively towards showroom sales targets and operational efficiency goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's long history and emphasis on customer experience suggest a culture that values long-term relationships and quality. The "sales goals" indicate a performance-driven aspect, balanced by "teamwork" and "customer centricity."

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Commission-Based Income Fluctuation: Managing variable income requires strong financial discipline and consistent sales performance.
• Meeting Ambitious Sales Targets: Consistently achieving or exceeding sales goals in a competitive retail environment.
• Handling Diverse Customer Needs: Effectively catering to a wide range of customer tastes, budgets, and design expectations.
• Balancing Showroom Duties with Client Engagement: Managing time effectively between assisting walk-in customers, conducting scheduled appointments, and performing administrative tasks.
• Adapting to Design Trends: Staying current with evolving interior design styles and translating them into marketable solutions for customers.
• Driving Clienteling Success: Proactively building and nurturing a robust client base for sustained sales performance.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Bassett Interior Design Certification: Comprehensive training program to become a certified design professional within the Bassett framework.
• Product Knowledge Mastery: In-depth training on furniture construction, materials, customization options, and care.
• Sales Technique Enhancement: Ongoing coaching and workshops on consultative selling, negotiation, and closing strategies.
• Trend Forecasting: Access to information and training on current and upcoming interior design trends.
• Leadership Development: Pathways for advancement into management roles, with training in operational oversight, team leadership, and sales strategy.
• Mentorship Programs: Opportunities to learn from experienced Design Consultants and Sales Managers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role involves managing both sales performance and client relationships, which are core to revenue operations. The challenges highlight the need for strong self-management, sales skills, and adaptability.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to building rapport with a new customer who walks into the showroom."
  • Preparation: Focus on active listening, open-ended questions, and demonstrating genuine interest in their needs and style. Highlight how you transition from initial greeting to understanding their project.
• "How do you stay current with interior design trends, and how do you apply that knowledge to customer consultations?"
  • Preparation: Mention specific resources (magazines, blogs, trade shows, social media) and provide an example of how you've used a trend to solve a customer's design challenge or enhance their space.
• "Imagine a client loves a particular sofa but is hesitant about the price. How would you handle this objection while maintaining the sale?"
  • Preparation: Focus on value-based selling. Discuss highlighting craftsmanship, durability, customization options, and long-term value. Offer alternative solutions if appropriate or explore financing options.
• "Tell me about a time you exceeded a sales goal. What strategies did you employ?"
  • Preparation: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Quantify your achievements and detail the specific actions you took (e.g., improved clienteling, targeted outreach, enhanced product knowledge).
• "How do you approach virtual design consultations, and what tools do you find most effective?"
  • Preparation: Discuss your comfort with video conferencing, screen sharing, and potentially digital mood board creation. Emphasize clear communication and guiding the client remotely.

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to Bassett Furniture specifically, and how do you see yourself contributing to our brand and culture?"
  • Preparation: Research Bassett's history, values, and design philosophy. Connect your passion for design and sales experience to their established reputation and commitment to quality.
• "This role requires working weekends and holidays. How do you manage your work-life balance and ensure consistent performance during peak retail periods?"
  • Preparation: Demonstrate flexibility and commitment. Discuss your organizational skills and how you prioritize tasks to meet demands.
• "How do you collaborate with team members in a showroom environment to ensure a positive customer experience?"
  • Preparation: Provide examples of teamwork, such as assisting colleagues, sharing customer insights, or contributing to showroom upkeep.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Impact: For sales achievements, use clear, quantifiable data (e.g., "Achieved 120% of sales quota in Q3 2024").
• Showcase Process: When discussing design projects, walk through your methodology: client needs assessment, concept development, product selection, and final presentation.
• Highlight Clienteling: Share an example of a strong client relationship you built, detailing your follow-up strategy and how it led to repeat business or referrals.
• Visual Aids (If Applicable): If you have high-quality photos of design projects or mood boards, be ready to share them. Keep them concise and focused on demonstrating problem-solving and aesthetic sensibility.
• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize skills and experiences most relevant to a Design Consultant role at Bassett, such as furniture sales, interior design consultation, and relationship building.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview preparation focuses on sales execution, customer engagement, design acumen, and cultural fit. The "portfolio presentation strategy" emphasizes quantifiable sales results and clear articulation of the design and sales process.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Consultant position:

• Submit your application and resume through the provided link on Dayforce.
• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your sales achievements, any interior design experience or passion, customer service skills, and experience in commission-based environments. Use keywords from the job description such as "design consultant," "sales goals," "customer relationships," and "interior design."
• Prepare Your Portfolio (Mentally or Actually): Be ready to discuss specific examples of your sales success, clienteling strategies, and design projects. Quantify your achievements whenever possible.
• Research Bassett Furniture: Familiarize yourself with their product lines, design aesthetic, history, and company values to demonstrate your genuine interest and cultural alignment.
• Practice Your "Sales Pitch": Be prepared to articulate why you are a great fit for this role and how your skills will drive sales and enhance customer experiences in a Bassett showroom.

⚠️ 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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