DESIGN_CONSULTANT

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Consultant Company: Bassett Furniture Location: Frisco, Texas, United States Job Type: Full-Time Category: Sales & Design Operations Date Posted: February 19, 2026 Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years inferred) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive revenue growth by providing expert interior design consultations and personalized sales experiences to a diverse clientele.
• Cultivate and maintain long-term customer relationships through exceptional service, understanding individual needs and translating them into effective design solutions.
• Leverage comprehensive product knowledge of furniture construction and current design trends to guide customers in creating their dream rooms.
• Achieve and exceed sales targets within a commissioned retail environment, utilizing relationship selling techniques and in-store and virtual client engagement.
• Contribute to a positive and collaborative showroom environment, embodying Bassett Furniture's brand values and commitment to quality.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is primarily sales-focused within a design context. While not a traditional Revenue Operations or Sales Operations role focused on systems, process optimization, or analytical reporting, the core responsibilities involve driving revenue through consultative sales and client relationship management. Therefore, the "Operations" categorization is applied broadly to encompass the operational aspects of sales execution and client lifecycle management within a retail setting. The enhancement focuses on framing sales and design activities through an operational lens, emphasizing process, client engagement, and revenue generation.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth interior design consultations, actively listening to customers to understand their aesthetic preferences, lifestyle needs, and budget constraints.
• Develop and present customized design solutions, including furniture selection, space planning, and fabric/color coordination, to meet client requirements.
• Utilize relationship selling methodologies to build rapport, trust, and long-term loyalty with customers, encouraging repeat business and referrals.
• Proactively manage a sales pipeline, from initial customer engagement to closing the sale and post-sale follow-up, ensuring a seamless client experience.
• Drive personal sales performance by consistently meeting and exceeding established sales goals and key performance indicators (KPIs) within a commissioned structure.
• Maintain a comprehensive understanding of Bassett Furniture's product catalog, including construction details, materials, customization options, and current design trends.
• Engage with customers through various channels, including in-store appointments, virtual consultations, live chats, and potential in-home or in-business makeovers.
• Collaborate with showroom management and team members to foster a supportive and high-performing sales environment, sharing best practices and contributing to overall store success.
• Stay current with industry design trends, competitor offerings, and sales techniques through ongoing training and self-study to maintain a competitive edge.
• Process customer orders accurately and efficiently, ensuring all details are captured correctly for production and delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: The raw description emphasizes "relationship selling" and customer consultations. This enhancement breaks down these broad concepts into specific, actionable responsibilities, outlining the end-to-end sales process from discovery to closing and follow-up. It also incorporates industry-standard sales terminology and KPIs relevant to a retail sales operations context.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a background or strong interest in Interior Design, Interior Merchandising, or a related field is highly beneficial. Completion of Bassett's Interior Design certification training is a key component of professional development.

Experience: Proven track record of success in sales, preferably within a retail or client-facing environment. Experience in commissioned sales roles is advantageous. Minimum of 2-5 years of direct sales experience is inferred to meet the mid-level expectations and income potential.

Required Skills:

• Passion for Interior Design: A genuine enthusiasm for aesthetics, color theory, fabric textures, and creating beautiful living spaces.
• Exceptional Sales Acumen: Demonstrated ability to drive sales, meet and exceed targets, and thrive in a commissioned environment.
• Relationship Building: Proven skill in establishing rapport, building trust, and fostering long-term customer loyalty.
• Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication, active listening, and the ability to connect with a diverse range of customers.
• Color and Texture Coordination: A keen eye for discerning and harmonizing colors, textures, and materials to create cohesive design schemes.
• Customer Needs Assessment: Ability to effectively translate customer wants, lifestyle, and budget into tangible design choices.
• Computer Proficiency: Competence in using CRM systems (or equivalent), virtual meeting platforms, and general office software.
• Self-Motivation & Drive: A proactive, results-oriented mindset with a strong desire to achieve and grow.
• Positive & Friendly Demeanor: An outgoing personality that creates a welcoming and engaging customer experience.
• Professional Image: A polished appearance and demeanor befitting a trusted design consultant.

Preferred Skills:

• Clientele Development: Experience in proactively building and nurturing a personal client base.
• Design Consultation Expertise: Formal training or demonstrated experience in providing design advice and solutions.
• Virtual Sales Proficiency: Experience conducting sales consultations and client interactions via video conferencing and digital platforms.
• Product Knowledge Acquisition: Aptitude for quickly learning and retaining detailed information about product construction, materials, and features.
• Time Management & Organization: Ability to manage multiple client interactions, consultations, and follow-ups effectively.
• Team Collaboration: Willingness to support colleagues and contribute positively to the showroom team dynamic.

📝 Enhancement Note: The original listing provided a robust list of attributes. This section categorizes them into essential and preferred skills, aligns them with typical sales and design roles, and adds context relevant to operations professionals, such as CRM proficiency and pipeline management. The experience level is inferred based on the salary range and the nature of the role's responsibilities.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Sales Success Case Studies: Documented examples of successful sales engagements, highlighting problem identification, solution presentation, and successful closure. Quantify achievements with sales figures or growth percentages where possible.
• Design Consultation Examples: Visual representations of past design projects or client makeovers, showcasing your ability to coordinate colors, textures, and furniture selections to meet client needs. This could include mood boards, 3D renderings, or before-and-after photos.
• Client Relationship Management Examples: Evidence of your approach to building and maintaining client relationships, such as sample follow-up communications, client testimonials, or descriptions of loyalty-building strategies.
• Process Improvement Contributions (if applicable): If you have experience in retail sales operations or process improvement, include examples of how you've optimized sales workflows, improved customer onboarding, or enhanced reporting accuracy.

Process Documentation:

• Client Engagement Workflow: A clear outline of your typical process for engaging a new client, from initial contact through needs assessment, design proposal, order placement, and post-sale follow-up.
• Sales Cycle Management: Documentation demonstrating how you track leads, manage follow-ups, and move prospects through the sales funnel to conversion.
• Design Consultation Methodology: A structured approach to conducting design consultations, including key questions asked, tools used (e.g., mood boards, fabric swatches), and presentation techniques.
• Performance Tracking & Reporting: Examples of how you track your own sales performance, identify areas for improvement, and report on key metrics.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this role is client-facing sales, a portfolio demonstrating process and results is crucial for demonstrating competence. This section infers typical portfolio requirements for a sales role that emphasizes consultative selling and client lifecycle management, framing them in terms of process and measurable outcomes relevant to operations.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $70,000 - $135,000+ annually (Commission-based, with potential for experienced top writers to earn significantly more).

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Includes Health, Dental, and Vision insurance plans to support employee well-being.
• Income Protection: Disability and Life Insurance policies provide financial security.
• Retirement Savings: A 401(k) plan with potential company matching to aid in long-term financial planning.
• Professional Development: Paid training, tuition assistance, and Interior Design certification opportunities foster career growth.
• Work-Life Balance Support: Paid time off (PTO) for rest and personal needs.
• Employee Perks: Generous employee discounts on Bassett Furniture products and access to a state-of-the-art showroom environment.
• Career Advancement: Clear opportunities for growth and advancement within the company structure.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week, with a requirement to work weekends and holidays as dictated by retail operational needs. Flexibility may be required to accommodate client appointments and peak business periods.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range and specific benefits are directly extracted from the provided text. The working hours are inferred from the standard 40-hour work week and the explicit mention of weekend/holiday work, typical for retail sales roles. The salary estimation methodology involves directly using the provided average and top-writer figures, noting the commission-based nature.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Furniture Retail & Manufacturing. Bassett Furniture has a long-standing heritage in the home furnishings industry, established in 1902, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation.

Company Size: Large (Bassett Furniture Industries is a publicly traded company with a significant number of employees across manufacturing, retail, and corporate functions). This size implies structured processes, established training programs, and broader career development pathways.

Founded: 1902. This extensive history points to a stable company with a deep understanding of the furniture market and a commitment to long-term customer relationships and quality.

Team Structure:

• Showroom-Based Sales Teams: Design Consultants typically operate within a specific retail showroom, reporting to a Showroom Manager or Sales Manager.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: While primarily client-facing, Design Consultants collaborate with showroom staff (design assistants, delivery coordinators) and potentially with manufacturing and design departments for custom orders or issue resolution.
• Customer-Centric Focus: The culture emphasizes building strong customer relationships and providing exceptional service, with the sales team acting as the primary interface.

Methodology:

• Relationship Selling: The core sales approach focuses on understanding customer needs deeply and building trust over time, rather than transactional sales.
• Design-Centric Approach: Emphasis on providing expert design advice and solutions, leveraging a complimentary design service as a sales tool.
• Continuous Learning: Commitment to ongoing training in product knowledge, sales techniques, and design skills to ensure associates remain experts.
• Quality & Value: A foundational principle of offering fashionable, innovative furnishings at a great value.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Company history, size, and industry context are derived from the provided text and general knowledge of Bassett Furniture. The "Methodology" section is inferred from the job description's emphasis on training, design consultation, and relationship selling.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a mid-level sales position within the retail operations of Bassett Furniture. It's a client-facing role that requires significant autonomy in managing the sales process, client interactions, and design consultation. It's a step beyond entry-level sales associate roles, demanding a higher level of expertise and client relationship management.

Reporting Structure: Design Consultants typically report to a Showroom Manager or Sales Manager. This manager is responsible for overseeing showroom performance, coaching sales staff, and ensuring client satisfaction.

Operations Impact: The direct impact of this role is on revenue generation and customer satisfaction/retention. Successful Design Consultants directly contribute to the profitability of their showroom and the overall financial health of Bassett Furniture by closing sales and fostering repeat business. They are the frontline ambassadors of the brand, shaping customer perception and loyalty through their expertise and service.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Design Consultant/Specialist: Advancement to roles with increased responsibility, potentially focusing on specific design niches or leading training initiatives.
• Showroom Management: Progression to positions like Assistant Showroom Manager or Showroom Manager, overseeing operations, sales teams, and store performance.
• Design Leadership: Opportunities to move into roles focused on broader design strategy, visual merchandising, or product development within the company.
• Sales Training & Development: Transitioning into roles that focus on training and coaching new sales associates, leveraging their successful sales experience.
• Cross-Functional Moves: Potential to move into related areas such as B2B sales, interior design services management, or even product management if skills align.

📝 Enhancement Note: This analysis focuses on how a sales role can be viewed through an "operations" lens, emphasizing its contribution to revenue, client lifecycle management, and potential career paths within a larger retail organization. The growth trajectory is mapped from a mid-level sales role to management and specialized design positions.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Retail Showroom. This is a customer-facing, on-site position requiring presence within a professionally designed and maintained Bassett Furniture showroom.

Office Location(s): Frisco, Texas. The specific showroom location in Frisco provides access to a dynamic consumer market.

Workspace Context:

• Customer-Centric Layout: The showroom is designed to showcase furniture and design concepts, providing an inspiring environment for clients and consultants.
• Collaborative Atmosphere: While individual sales are key, the showroom environment encourages interaction and support among sales consultants and showroom staff.
• Tools & Technology: Access to design software, product catalogs, fabric sample libraries, and potentially digital tools for virtual consultations and presentations.
• Dynamic Pace: The environment can be varied, ranging from focused, one-on-one client consultations to busier periods with multiple customer interactions.

Work Schedule: The role requires flexibility, including working weekends and holidays, which are critical for retail operations. Standard working hours are approximately 40 per week, but may extend to accommodate client needs and peak business periods.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section details the physical and operational aspects of the work environment, emphasizing the on-site nature and the specific context of a retail furniture showroom. It highlights how the environment supports the operational requirements of the role.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your application, resume, and potentially a brief phone screening to assess basic qualifications and interest.
• In-Depth Interview: This will likely involve meeting with the Showroom Manager or Hiring Manager. Expect questions focused on your sales experience, design passion, customer service philosophy, and ability to handle commission-based sales. Behavioral questions assessing your problem-solving skills, motivation, and teamwork will be common.
• Sales Simulation/Case Study: You may be asked to role-play a sales consultation scenario or present a design concept based on a hypothetical client brief. This assesses your practical application of sales techniques and design thinking.
• Portfolio Review: Be prepared to walk through your portfolio, highlighting specific projects, your design process, and quantifiable sales achievements.
• Final Interview/Onboarding: Potentially a final interview with higher management or an HR representative, followed by onboarding processes upon offer acceptance.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Achievements: For sales roles, numbers speak volumes – highlight revenue generated, sales targets exceeded, and client growth.
• Showcase Design Process: Clearly articulate your approach to understanding client needs, developing concepts, and presenting solutions. Use visuals effectively.
• Demonstrate Relationship Building: Include testimonials or examples of how you've maintained long-term client relationships.
• Tailor to Bassett: Emphasize any experience with furniture, home decor, or similar retail environments. Show an understanding of Bassett's brand aesthetic and value proposition.
• Organize for Clarity: Ensure your portfolio is easy to navigate, whether digital or physical, with clear sections and concise explanations.

Challenge Preparation:

• Practice Design Consultations: Role-play scenarios envisioning different client types (e.g., budget-conscious, style-specific, indecisive).
• Prepare Sales Pitches: Develop concise talking points about Bassett's products, services, and unique selling propositions.
• Research Bassett's Brand: Understand their history, design philosophy, and target market. Be ready to articulate why you want to work there.
• Anticipate Commission-Based Questions: Prepare to discuss your comfort level with commission, how you stay motivated, and your income expectations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section outlines a typical retail sales interview process, with specific advice tailored to a design consultant role. It emphasizes the importance of a portfolio that demonstrates both sales results and design acumen, and provides actionable preparation tips for potential candidates.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM System: Likely a proprietary or industry-standard Customer Relationship Management system for managing leads, customer interactions, sales pipelines, and client history. Examples could include Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics, or specialized retail CRM solutions.
• Design Software/Visualization Tools: Software for creating mood boards, space plans, 3D renderings, or virtual room visualizations. This could range from specialized interior design software to presentation tools.
• Point-of-Sale (POS) System: Used for processing transactions, managing inventory, and handling customer orders.
• Communication Platforms: Tools for internal communication (e.g., Slack, Microsoft Teams) and external client communication (e.g., email, video conferencing like Zoom or Google Meet, live chat software).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Performance Dashboards: Tools or reports that track individual and showroom sales metrics, conversion rates, average transaction value, and attainment of sales goals.
• Customer Data Analytics: Utilizing CRM data to understand customer demographics, purchase history, and preferences.

CRM & Automation:

• Lead Management Systems: Tools for capturing, qualifying, and assigning incoming leads to Design Consultants.
• Order Management Systems: Software to track custom orders from placement through production, delivery, and installation.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section infers the technology stack based on the role's requirements: sales, design, client communication, and retail operations. It includes common CRM, POS, and design tools relevant to the furniture retail industry.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: A paramount value centered on understanding and exceeding customer expectations through personalized service and design expertise.
• Integrity & Quality: Upholding Bassett's long-standing reputation for quality craftsmanship and ethical business practices in all client interactions and sales processes.
• Passion for Design: A deep appreciation for aesthetics, creativity, and the transformative power of well-designed spaces, driving innovation and client satisfaction.
• Teamwork & Collaboration: Fostering a supportive showroom environment where consultants share knowledge, assist each other, and work collectively towards common sales and customer service goals.
• Results-Oriented: A drive to achieve and surpass sales targets, recognizing that individual and team success directly contributes to the company's growth and profitability.
• Continuous Improvement: Embracing ongoing learning and development in design trends, sales techniques, and product knowledge to maintain expertise and adapt to market changes.

Collaboration Style:

• Client-Centric Collaboration: The primary collaboration is with clients, ensuring their needs are met through attentive listening and expert guidance.
• Showroom Team Support: Working closely with fellow Design Consultants and showroom staff to share insights, cover busy periods, and maintain a cohesive customer experience.
• Information Sharing: Openness to sharing product knowledge, design tips, and successful sales strategies with team members.
• Problem-Solving Focus: Collaborating with management and support teams to resolve customer issues or order complexities efficiently.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section translates the company's ethos and operational requirements into specific values and a collaborative style relevant to a sales and design team. It emphasizes how these cultural elements impact the daily operations of a Design Consultant.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Commission-Based Income Volatility: The inherent challenge of a commission structure is income fluctuation, requiring strong sales performance and effective client pipeline management to ensure consistent earnings.
• Managing Diverse Client Needs: Effectively catering to a wide spectrum of customer tastes, budgets, and decision-making styles requires adaptability, strong communication, and excellent problem-solving skills.
• Staying Ahead of Design Trends: The fast-paced nature of interior design demands continuous learning and adaptation to new styles, materials, and consumer preferences.
• Balancing Sales Quotas with Design Expertise: Successfully integrating consultative design services with the pressure to meet aggressive sales targets requires efficient time management and a strategic sales approach.
• Navigating Customization Complexities: Managing detailed custom orders, ensuring accuracy in specifications, and communicating lead times effectively to clients can be complex.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Bassett Interior Design Certification: A structured program to enhance design skills and product knowledge, leading to professional certification.
• Advanced Sales Training: Opportunities to refine relationship selling techniques, negotiation skills, and closing strategies.
• Product Knowledge Deep Dives: Continuous education on new collections, materials, construction techniques, and sustainability features.
• Mentorship Programs: Potential to learn from experienced senior consultants or management, gaining insights into career progression and leadership.
• Industry Events & Trends: Access to information and potentially participation in industry events that keep associates abreast of the latest design and retail trends.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section identifies potential challenges intrinsic to a retail sales and design role, framing them as opportunities for skill development. It also elaborates on the explicit learning and development pathways mentioned in the job description.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to understanding a client's design needs when they are unsure of their style." (Assesses active listening, questioning techniques, and consultative process.)
• "How do you handle objections related to price or style in a commissioned sales environment?" (Evaluates negotiation skills, value proposition articulation, and persistence.)
• "Walk me through a time you successfully built a long-term relationship with a customer that led to repeat business." (Focuses on client retention strategies and relationship management.)
• "Imagine a client wants a complete living room makeover but has a limited budget. How would you approach this situation?" (Tests problem-solving, creative solutioning, and budget management.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you specifically about Bassett Furniture and our design approach?" (Assesses research and alignment with brand values.)
• "How do you stay motivated and perform in a commission-based sales role?" (Probes resilience, self-discipline, and drive.)
• "Describe your ideal showroom environment and team dynamic." (Gauges cultural fit and collaboration preferences.)
• "How do you see yourself contributing to the success of our Frisco showroom?" (Focuses on proactive contribution and team integration.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Start with Impact: Begin with your most impressive sales achievements or design projects.
• Tell a Story: For each project, outline the client's initial need, your proposed solution, the process, and the successful outcome (quantified results are key).
• Highlight Process: Explain how you achieved the results – your sales methodology, design thinking, and client engagement techniques.
• Showcase Versatility: Present a range of projects that demonstrate your ability to work with different styles, budgets, and client types.
• Be Ready for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your design choices, sales strategies, and how you handled challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: This provides targeted interview questions that a candidate might expect, focusing on sales strategy, client management, and cultural fit. The portfolio advice is tailored to showcase both design and sales operational effectiveness.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Consultant position:

• Submit your application directly through the provided link on the Dayforce job portal.
• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your sales achievements (quantify them with numbers like revenue generated, sales goals met/exceeded, client growth) and any direct experience in interior design, furniture sales, or customer relationship management. Use keywords from the job description.
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Compile examples of successful sales consultations, design projects, and evidence of client relationship building. Be ready to articulate your process and quantifiable results.
• Research Bassett Furniture: Familiarize yourself with their brand history, design aesthetic, product lines, and company values. Understand what makes them unique in the furniture market.
• Practice Interview Scenarios: Prepare to discuss your sales approach, design passion, and how you handle challenges, especially those related to commission-based sales and client consultations.

⚠️ 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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