In-Home Design Consultant ($150k-250k)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: In-Home Design Consultant

Company: Express Flooring

Location: Burbank, CA

Job Type: 1099 – Direct Seller / Contractor

Category: Sales & Business Development (with a strong GTM component)

Date Posted: March 18, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on direct, in-home sales of flooring solutions, emphasizing a consultative sales approach to close deals within a single visit.

• It involves significant client interaction, requiring strong rapport-building, needs assessment, and presentation skills to guide homeowners through product selection and financing options.

• The position is commission-based, offering substantial earning potential ($150k-$250k annually, with top performers exceeding $300k), driven by achieving sales targets and closing deals effectively.

• Requires a high degree of self-motivation, organization, and the ability to manage a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends, to maximize sales opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Design Consultant," the core responsibilities and compensation structure clearly indicate a specialized sales role heavily focused on closing deals in a direct-to-consumer, in-home setting. The "GTM" aspect is prominent as this role directly drives revenue and customer acquisition through field sales efforts. The "1099" classification suggests an independent contractor role rather than traditional employment.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct in-home consultations with potential clients, assessing their needs and presenting tailored flooring solutions.

• Utilize provided sample kits to effectively showcase product options and guide homeowners in making confident purchasing decisions.

• Prepare and present accurate estimates, including flexible financing options, to facilitate immediate sales closure during the consultation.

• Achieve and exceed defined sales targets by successfully closing deals within the initial in-home visit, leveraging strong persuasive and negotiation skills.

• Collaborate closely with the Express Flooring team, including sales managers and support staff, to ensure a seamless and exceptional customer experience from consultation to potential installation coordination.

• Manage a personal schedule of appointments, ensuring punctuality and efficiency in client visits and follow-ups.

• Maintain a professional demeanor and represent the Express Flooring brand effectively in client homes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "closing the sale in one visit" and presenting financing options highlights a high-velocity sales process. The responsibility to "collaborate with the Express Flooring team" suggests a need for clear communication and handoff processes, even for a 1099 role, to ensure customer satisfaction extends beyond the initial sale.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.

Experience:

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in in-home sales or outside sales roles.

Required Skills:

• Consultative Selling: Ability to build rapport, understand customer needs, and present solutions effectively in a one-on-one setting.

• Closing Proficiency: Proven track record of closing sales during client consultations, often under time pressure.

• Product Presentation: Skill in showcasing and explaining product features and benefits using sample kits.

• Organizational & Time Management: Strong ability to manage a personal schedule, prioritize appointments, and meet sales targets independently.

• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication for client interactions and internal coordination.

• Financial Acumen: Comfort in presenting financing options and explaining payment terms.

• Self-Motivation: Driven to achieve financial goals and maintain high performance in an independent sales role.

• Valid Driver's License & Vehicle: Required for travel to client homes.

Preferred Skills:

• Design Acumen: Basic understanding of interior design principles or an eye for aesthetics related to home decor and flooring.

• CRM Proficiency: Familiarity with CRM systems for managing leads, appointments, and sales pipelines (though not explicitly mentioned, it's a common tool in sales operations).

• Negotiation Skills: Ability to navigate client objections and reach mutually agreeable terms.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "2+ years of experience in in-home or outside sales" is a key qualifier. The "college degree preferred" suggests that while not mandatory, candidates with higher education may be viewed more favorably, potentially indicating a more complex sales process or a desire for candidates with stronger analytical and communication skills. The physical requirements (lifting, stairs) are important to note as they are specific to the nature of home-based sales and product handling.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Sales Performance Metrics: Documented proof of achieving and exceeding sales targets in previous roles, with specific figures and growth percentages.

• Case Studies of Successful Closures: Examples of complex sales scenarios navigated and closed, highlighting problem-solving and client management skills.

• Demonstration of Consultative Process: Examples of how you engage clients, assess needs, and present solutions, possibly through simulated scenarios or descriptions of past approaches.

• Evidence of Rapport Building: Anecdotal evidence or testimonials demonstrating your ability to connect with clients and build trust quickly.

• Financing Presentation Examples: If possible, sample materials or descriptions of how you've presented financing options to clients.

Process Documentation:

• Client Engagement Workflow: A clear outline of your typical process from initial contact to closing the sale during an in-home visit.

• Needs Assessment Methodology: How you identify and prioritize client needs, preferences, and budget constraints.

• Sales Pipeline Management: Description of how you manage your leads, appointments, and follow-ups to ensure efficiency and maximize conversion rates.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a 1099 sales role, a "portfolio" typically translates to a strong sales track record and the ability to articulate one's sales process. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their methodology for in-home sales, including lead qualification, needs assessment, presentation techniques, objection handling, and closing strategies. Quantifiable results are paramount.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $150,000 – $250,000 USD annually (Commission-Based)

Estimated First-Year Earnings: $150,000 - $250,000 USD

Potential Top Performer Earnings: $300,000+ USD annually

Benefits:

• Uncapped Commission Potential: Direct correlation between sales performance and earnings, offering significant earning ceiling.

• Paid Training Program: A 7-week comprehensive training program designed to equip consultants with sales and product knowledge.

• Ongoing Coaching: One-on-one coaching from dedicated sales managers to support skill development and performance improvement.

• Lead Generation Support: Access to "Golden Leads" generated through TV advertising, boasting a high close rate (60%), minimizing cold-calling efforts.

• Flexible Scheduling: Autonomy to manage your own appointment-driven schedule.

• Supportive Sales Environment: Access to sales managers focused on helping consultants succeed.

Working Hours:

• Flexible, appointment-driven schedule.

• Willingness to work evenings and weekends is required to meet client availability and sales targets.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is presented as a target for commission earnings, not a base salary. The "1099 – Direct Seller" classification means that typical employee benefits (health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off) are generally not provided. Candidates should be aware of the self-employment tax implications and the need to secure their own benefits. The "7-week paid training program" is a significant benefit for a commission-only role, indicating a strong investment in new hires.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Flooring Solutions (Residential and Commercial)

Company Size: Express Flooring operates in multiple states, indicating a significant regional or national presence. (Specific size not provided, but the scope suggests more than a small local business).

Founded: Not specified, but described as a "rapidly expanding company."

Team Structure:

• The role involves collaboration with "Sales Managers" who provide coaching and support.

• While a direct seller, there's an implied connection to a broader Express Flooring team responsible for marketing (TV ads for lead generation) and potentially installation services.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Lead Generation: Utilizes TV advertising to generate "Golden Leads" with a high documented close rate, indicating a strategic approach to customer acquisition.

• Consultative Sales Process: Focuses on in-home consultations, needs assessment, and solution presentation to close deals.

• Performance-Oriented Culture: Emphasizes achieving sales targets and exceeding goals, with significant financial rewards tied to performance.

• Continuous Improvement: Offers comprehensive training and ongoing coaching to enhance consultant skills and effectiveness.

Company Website: http://www.expressflooring.com/careers

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's emphasis on "rapidly expanding," "ambitious individuals," and "unlimited potential for growth" suggests a dynamic and driven environment. The "problem solvers" value aligns with the need for consultants to overcome client objections and tailor solutions. The "care deeply about our employees" statement, contrasted with the 1099 status, might imply a focus on supporting their independent contractors' success and growth.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is at the Senior Sales Consultant or Field Sales Specialist level, focusing on direct client acquisition and revenue generation within the GTM function.

Reporting Structure:

• Reports to a Sales Manager who provides coaching, support, and performance guidance.

Operations Impact:

• Directly drives revenue for Express Flooring through in-home sales.

• Contributes to customer acquisition and market penetration by converting leads into paying customers.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advanced Sales Skills: Develop expertise in consultative selling, closing techniques, and financial presentation within the flooring industry.

• Potential for Leadership: With consistent high performance, opportunities may arise for roles such as Senior Consultant, Team Lead, or even Sales Management positions within Express Flooring's contractor network or employee structure.

• Expanded Territory/Client Base: Successful consultants may be offered opportunities to manage larger territories or a more exclusive client pipeline.

• Financial Growth: The primary growth opportunity is uncapped earnings based on sales performance, with the potential to significantly increase income year over year.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not a traditional "operations" role, the success of a Design Consultant is crucial for the operational efficiency of the sales funnel. Their ability to close deals efficiently impacts inventory management, installation scheduling, and overall revenue forecasting. Growth here is primarily tied to sales mastery and financial success, with potential for stepping into roles that manage or train other sales consultants.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: In-home selling environment, requiring travel to client residences.

Office Location(s): Primary service area is Burbank, CA, but consultants will travel to various client homes within a designated territory.

Workspace Context:

• Mobile Office: Consultants are equipped with sample kits and potentially digital tools for presentations and estimates, effectively making client homes their primary workspace.

• Collaborative Support: While working independently in the field, consultants have access to remote support from sales managers and potentially administrative staff for scheduling or issue resolution.

• Field-Based Technology: Expect to use mobile devices for communication, scheduling, and potentially for presenting proposals and financing options.

Work Schedule:

• Highly flexible, appointment-based schedule.

• Requires availability during evenings and weekends to accommodate customer needs. Consultants often set their own appointment times within operational guidelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "work environment" is highly characterized by autonomy and client-facing interactions. Consultants must be comfortable working alone in client homes and managing their own time effectively. The flexibility is a key draw, but it comes with the expectation of availability during peak customer demand times (evenings and weekends).

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a phone or video call to assess basic qualifications, sales experience, and enthusiasm for the role and commission structure.

• Skills Assessment/Role Play: Potential for a simulated in-home sales consultation or a presentation of a past sales success story to evaluate direct selling and closing skills.

• Manager Interview: In-depth discussion with a Sales Manager focusing on sales methodology, target achievement, problem-solving, and cultural fit.

• Final Review: Possibly a review of sales performance history or references.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Achievements: Prepare specific numbers for sales targets met, percentage increases in sales, average deal size, and closing ratios.

• Articulate Your Process: Be ready to walk through your step-by-step approach to an in-home sales consultation, from initial greeting to closing.

• Highlight Problem-Solving: Share examples of how you've overcome client objections, navigated difficult conversations, or tailored solutions to unique client needs.

• Showcase Product Knowledge (if applicable): While training is provided, demonstrating an ability to quickly learn and present product information is beneficial.

• Testimonials: If available, have references or testimonials ready that speak to your sales effectiveness and client satisfaction.

Challenge Preparation:

• Sales Scenario: Be prepared for a hypothetical sales scenario where you need to pitch a flooring solution, handle objections, and attempt to close the deal. Focus on your communication style, confidence, and ability to listen.

• Why Commission: Articulate clearly why you are motivated by and thrive in a commission-based sales environment.

• Company Knowledge: Research Express Flooring's products, market position, and any recent news to demonstrate genuine interest.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "portfolio" for this role is heavily weighted towards demonstrable sales success and the articulation of a robust, repeatable sales process. Candidates should be ready to "sell themselves" throughout the interview process, mirroring the skills required for the job itself.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Sample Kits: Physical sample kits containing flooring materials are essential for in-home presentations.

• Measurement Tools: Tools for accurately measuring spaces (tape measures, laser measures).

• Estimating Software/Tools: Potentially proprietary software or templates for generating sales quotes and estimates on-site.

• Mobile Device: Smartphone or tablet for communication, scheduling, CRM access, and potentially digital proposal presentations.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While consultants may not directly use advanced analytics tools, they will need to track their own performance against sales targets.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM System: Likely a CRM system (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot, or a custom solution) for managing leads, scheduling appointments, tracking sales activities, and forecasting.

• Communication Tools: Email, phone, and potentially messaging apps for client and internal team communication.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is focused on enabling effective in-home sales. While advanced analytics might be managed by other departments, the consultant needs to be proficient with tools that facilitate direct client interaction, proposal generation, and pipeline management. Proficiency in using a mobile-first CRM is highly probable.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Performance-Driven: A strong emphasis on achieving and exceeding sales targets is paramount.

• Customer-Centric: Delivering an exceptional customer experience is key to repeat business and referrals.

• Proactive & Self-Starting: Consultants are expected to be highly motivated and manage their own workflow effectively.

• Integrity & Professionalism: Representing the company well in clients' homes is crucial.

• Continuous Learning: Willingness to engage with training and coaching to improve sales skills.

Collaboration Style:

• Independent Field Work: Consultants primarily work alone during client consultations.

• Remote Support: They collaborate with sales managers for guidance, coaching, and performance discussions.

• Team Integration: There's a need to coordinate with internal teams for lead flow and potentially post-sale support, ensuring a unified customer experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture values high achievers who can operate independently while still being part of a larger sales organization. The emphasis on "problem solvers" and "finding innovative solutions" applies to overcoming sales objections and meeting diverse customer needs.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Commission-Only Pressure: The primary challenge is the inherent pressure of a commission-based role, where income directly depends on sales performance.

• Client Rejection/Objections: Dealing with client skepticism, objections, and outright rejections is a daily reality in sales.

• Time Management & Scheduling: Balancing multiple client appointments, travel time, and administrative tasks effectively.

• Market Competition: Competing with other flooring providers and home improvement services.

• Physical Demands: The role involves physical activity such as climbing stairs and potentially lifting samples.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Sales Mastery: Deepen expertise in consultative selling, negotiation, and closing techniques through structured training and ongoing coaching.

• Product Expertise: Become knowledgeable in a wide range of flooring products, their benefits, and applications.

• Financial Planning: Develop skills in presenting and managing financing options for clients.

• Career Advancement: Progress to senior sales roles, team leadership, or management within the company's sales structure.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to a direct, in-home sales role with significant earning potential tied to performance. The growth opportunities are primarily focused on honing sales skills and achieving higher earning levels, with potential pathways into sales leadership.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for conducting an in-home sales consultation from start to finish." (Focus on rapport, needs assessment, presentation, objection handling, closing.)

• "How do you handle a client who is hesitant about your pricing or asks for a significant discount?" (Prepare to discuss value-based selling and negotiation.)

• "Walk me through a time you successfully closed a difficult sale. What were the key factors?" (Use the STAR method to highlight your skills.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Express Flooring and our products?" (Research the company website, product lines, and any recent news.)

• "How do you stay motivated and organized when working independently?" (Highlight your self-discipline, scheduling techniques, and goal-setting habits.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Quantify Everything: Have your sales metrics readily available and be able to explain them clearly.

• Tell a Story: Use specific examples and anecdotes to illustrate your sales process and problem-solving abilities.

• Focus on Results: Emphasize the outcomes of your efforts – closed deals, exceeded targets, satisfied clients.

• Demonstrate Confidence: Your presentation should reflect the confidence and professionalism required for in-home sales.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating sales acumen, client management skills, and a strong understanding of the commission-based model. The ability to articulate a clear, effective sales process is paramount.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Express Flooring careers page.

• Prepare Your Sales Track Record: Gather specific data on your past sales achievements, including targets met, revenue generated, and closing ratios. Be ready to articulate these numbers confidently.

• Refine Your Sales Process Narrative: Develop a clear, concise explanation of your in-home sales methodology, from initial contact to closing. Practice delivering this narrative smoothly.

• Research Express Flooring: Familiarize yourself with their product offerings, target market, and company values. Understand their unique selling proposition, especially their "Golden Leads" and training program.

• Practice Presentation Skills: Rehearse your responses to common sales interview questions and be prepared for potential role-playing scenarios. Focus on confident communication and persuasive language.

⚠️ 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.