Retail Design Consultant

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Retail Design Consultant Company: Ethan Allen Global Inc Location: Knoxville, Tennessee, United States Job Type: Full-Time Category: Sales & Design Operations Date Posted: August 02, 2025 Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive revenue growth through expert interior design consultation and sales of Ethan Allen products and services.
• Develop and present customized design solutions, including space planning, fabric coordination, and product selection, to meet client needs and preferences.
• Cultivate a strong client base and foster long-term relationships through exceptional customer service and proactive engagement.
• Leverage digital tools, social media platforms, and grassroots marketing strategies to expand business reach and generate leads.
• Collaborate with design center teams to ensure seamless project execution and uphold Ethan Allen's brand standards for quality and craftsmanship.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is focused on sales and client relationship management within a retail design environment. While not a traditional "operations" role in terms of back-end process optimization, it heavily relies on operational execution in client management, sales process adherence, and utilizing internal systems to drive business outcomes. The "operations" aspect lies in the structured approach to client engagement, project management, and sales funnel management.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and execute individualized interior design solutions for clients, encompassing space planning, fabric selection, and furniture/accent product specification, to align with their distinct tastes and budgetary constraints.
• Achieve and exceed established monthly sales targets, including minimum sales quotas, accent sales, soft goods sales, and close ratios, as defined by Ethan Allen's performance benchmarks.
• Conduct in-home consultations (home calls) to thoroughly assess client environments, understand project requirements, and present comprehensive design proposals that facilitate sales conversion.
• Actively engage in grassroots marketing initiatives and utilize various social media channels and digital platforms to promote the Ethan Allen brand, build personal brand presence, and generate new business opportunities.
• Educate potential and existing clients on Ethan Allen's complimentary interior design services, tailoring the level of engagement to their specific needs and preferences throughout the design process.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of current interior design trends, color palettes, and product offerings to deliver fashionable and relevant design solutions that resonate with clients.
• Collaborate effectively with design center team members and leadership to ensure a superior customer experience, from initial consultation through post-sale follow-up, proactively communicating order status and addressing any potential delays.
• Participate actively in corporate-sponsored marketing campaigns, training programs, and professional development initiatives to enhance design expertise, sales acumen, and system proficiency.
• Inform clients about available Ethan Allen financing options and assist them in navigating the application process to facilitate purchases.
• Contribute to the ongoing development, maintenance, and presentation of the design center's client portfolio, showcasing successful projects and design capabilities.
• Proficiently utilize corporate systems, including CRM, 3D Room Planner, and other visualization tools, to streamline project design, enhance client presentations, and maximize operational efficiency.
• Accurately enter customer orders using the designated retail point-of-sale (POS) system, ensuring data integrity and adherence to transaction protocols.
• Maintain a visually appealing and organized design center environment, contributing to the overall brand presentation and client experience.
• Work collaboratively with the Design Center Leader/Design Sales Leader and fellow Design Consultants to develop and implement business and marketing plans aimed at expanding market reach and achieving sales objectives, monitoring plan effectiveness and proposing adjustments as necessary.
• Leverage interactive technologies, such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), to present design concepts and enhance client engagement.
• Actively utilize social media platforms (e.g., Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn) to enhance personal and brand visibility, build professional networks, and foster client relationships.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities emphasize a blend of sales, client relationship management, and design execution. The "operations" aspect is embedded in the execution of the sales process, client management workflows, and the utilization of technology to support these functions. The role requires adherence to established sales methodologies and a focus on client satisfaction metrics.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Minimum High School Diploma or equivalent is required.
• A Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a design-related field from an accredited institution is considered desirable, indicating a stronger foundational understanding of design principles and practices.

Experience:

• A minimum of one (1) year of practical interior design experience is essential, demonstrating hands-on application of design skills and client interaction.
• Experience in a retail sales environment, particularly within the home furnishings or interior design sector, is highly beneficial.

Required Skills:

• Interior Design Expertise: Broad and practical knowledge of interior design principles, space planning, color theory, fabric coordination, and furniture selection.
• Sales Acumen: Proven ability to effectively sell products and services, close sales, and meet or exceed sales targets using relationship-based selling techniques.
• Customer Relationship Management: Strong skills in building rapport, understanding client needs, providing exceptional customer service, and fostering long-term client loyalty.
• Communication Proficiency: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including active listening, clear articulation of design concepts, and professional client interaction.
• Digital Tool Utilization: Working knowledge of online sales and design tools, including CRM systems, 3D room planners, and visualization software.
• Social Media Savvy: General understanding of how to leverage social media platforms and grassroots marketing for business development and brand promotion.
• Adaptability & Learning: Willingness and capability to learn and adapt to new technologies and design tools.

Preferred Skills:

• Advanced Design Software Proficiency: Intermediate skill competency using digital floor planning technology, with a preference for 3D applications and visualization tools like AR/VR.
• Grassroots Marketing Experience: Proven experience in developing and executing marketing strategies to build a book of business and expand client networks.
• Financial Acumen: Ability to educate clients on finance options and facilitate the sales process through financing.
• Team Collaboration: Demonstrated ability to work cooperatively with team members to achieve collective goals and maintain a positive work environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications highlight a need for practical design skills combined with sales and customer engagement capabilities. The emphasis on digital tools and social media reflects a modern approach to sales and marketing within the retail design industry. Proficiency in specific design software and visualization tools would be a strong differentiator.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a range of successfully completed interior design projects, demonstrating diverse styles and client needs.
• Highlight projects that effectively integrate space planning, fabric selection, and product specification, illustrating a comprehensive design approach.
• Include examples of how design solutions were tailored to meet specific client budgets and preferences, demonstrating client-centricity.
• Present case studies that illustrate the design process from initial consultation to final installation, emphasizing client satisfaction and sales achievement.
• Demonstrate the ability to use visual aids and presentation tools effectively to communicate design concepts to clients.

Process Documentation:

• While not explicitly requiring formal process documentation in the traditional operations sense, candidates are expected to be able to articulate their design process, from client engagement and needs assessment to proposal development and sales closure.
• The ability to document client interactions and project details within the company's CRM system is crucial for effective business management and follow-up.
• Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they manage their workflow, prioritize tasks, and ensure timely project completion within their design practice.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "portfolio" here refers to a collection of past design work and client projects, not a process-oriented portfolio as might be expected in a pure operations role. The focus is on demonstrating design execution, client satisfaction, and sales success. The underlying expectation is that candidates can articulate and manage their personal sales and design workflow efficiently.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Recoverable Draw: Typically ranging from $30,000 to $70,000 annually, based on written sales. This represents a base earning potential that is earned against commissions.
• Potential Income: Experienced Design Consultants can average $70,000 - $115,000 per year.
• Top Performers: Top writers can earn $200,000 per year or more.

Benefits: Ethan Allen offers a comprehensive benefits package, which may vary based on employee classification (full-time vs. part-time). Key benefits include:

• Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with employer contributions.
• Health & Wellness:
  • Multiple Medical Plans with Prescription Drug Coverage.
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) with employer contributions.
  • Dental Plan.
  • Vision Plan.
• Insurance:
  • Basic Group Term Life & Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D).
  • Supplemental Group Term Life & AD&D Insurance.
  • Dependent Group Term Life Insurance.
  • Short-term and Long-term Disability Insurance.
  • Business Travel Accident Life Insurance.
• Financial Flexibility:
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for Health Care and Dependent Care.
  • Commuter Saving Plans for Public Transit & Parking.
• Voluntary Offerings:
  • Voluntary Whole Life Insurance.
  • Voluntary Critical Care Insurance.
  • Voluntary Accident Insurance.
• Employee Support: Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

Working Hours:

• This is a Full-Time position. While specific daily hours are not detailed, typical retail roles require flexibility to work various shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, to meet customer needs and store operating hours. The nature of design consultation may also involve scheduling appointments outside standard business hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The compensation structure is commission-based, with a recoverable draw providing a baseline income. The potential earnings are significant for high-performing individuals. The benefits package is robust, covering health, retirement, and insurance needs, which is standard for full-time roles in established retail companies.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Home Furnishings & Interior Design Retail. Ethan Allen is recognized as a leading interior design destination, blending technology with personal service. Company Size: Ethan Allen Global Inc. is a significant player in the premium furniture retail market. While the exact number of employees is not provided in the data, their extensive network of Design Centers suggests a substantial workforce, likely in the thousands globally. Founded: Over 90 years ago. This long history signifies stability, established brand recognition, and a deep understanding of the furniture and design market.

Team Structure:

• Design Center Focus: The role is situated within a local Design Center, which serves as a hub for client interactions, design consultations, and sales activities.
• Reporting: Design Consultants typically report to a Design Center Leader or Design Sales Leader, who oversees the sales team and operations within that specific location.
• Collaboration: The role emphasizes collaboration with other Design Consultants and support staff within the design center to ensure a cohesive client experience and efficient workflow. Teamwork is a key performance metric.

Methodology:

• Client-Centric Design: The core methodology revolves around understanding individual client needs, preferences, and budgets to create personalized design solutions.
• Relationship-Based Selling: Emphasis is placed on building trust and long-term relationships with clients, providing a high level of personalized service.
• Data-Informed Sales: While design is creative, sales performance is tracked through specific benchmarks (e.g., Minimum Monthly Sales, Close Ratio, PI). Consultants are expected to monitor their performance and adapt strategies accordingly.
• Technology Integration: The company utilizes technology, such as 3D Room Planners and CRM systems, to support the design and sales process, enhancing efficiency and client engagement.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Ethan Allen's culture emphasizes craftsmanship, quality, personal service, and a blend of traditional design values with modern technological integration. The focus on a long history suggests a stable and reputable employer. The team structure is likely localized within Design Centers, fostering a collaborative, sales-driven environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at an entry-level to junior level within the sales and design spectrum. It serves as a foundational role for individuals looking to build a career in interior design and retail sales. The focus is on developing client management, sales, and design skills through practical experience.

Reporting Structure: Design Consultants report to a local Design Center Leader or Design Sales Leader. This provides direct mentorship and performance management from an experienced individual within the organization.

Operations Impact: While primarily a sales role, the Design Consultant's effectiveness directly impacts the company's revenue stream and brand reputation. Efficient client management, successful project execution, and positive customer experiences contribute significantly to the company's financial performance and market position. The ability to leverage technology and adhere to sales processes (operational aspects) amplifies this impact.

Growth Opportunities:

• Sales Progression: Advancement into senior Design Consultant roles, leading to higher earning potential and potentially managing key accounts or client segments.
• Design Specialization: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific design styles, product categories (e.g., custom furniture, outdoor living), or client segments (e.g., trade program).
• Leadership Track: Potential to move into leadership positions such as Design Center Leader, Showroom Manager, or Sales Manager, overseeing teams and driving business strategy within a location.
• Cross-Functional Roles: For those who excel in process and technology utilization, there might be opportunities in areas like sales operations, training, or merchandising, depending on individual aptitude and company needs.
• Skill Development: Continuous learning opportunities through corporate training programs, access to design trend information, and hands-on experience with new technologies and products.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Design Consultant is primarily focused on sales performance and design expertise. Growth typically involves increasing sales volume, client base, and potentially moving into management roles within the retail design structure. While a direct "operations" career path might not be the primary trajectory, the skills developed are transferable to sales operations or client success roles in other industries.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The primary work environment is an Ethan Allen Design Center or Showroom. These spaces are designed to showcase the company's product lines, inspire clients, and facilitate design consultations. Office Location(s): The specific opening is in Knoxville, Tennessee. Ethan Allen operates a network of Design Centers across the United States and internationally.

Workspace Context:

• Client-Facing: The role is highly client-facing, requiring a professional demeanor and a welcoming presence within the design center.
• Collaborative Atmosphere: Design Consultants work alongside peers and management in a shared showroom environment, fostering teamwork and knowledge sharing.
• Technology-Rich: Consultants will utilize various technologies, including computer systems for design software, CRM, POS, and potentially interactive display technologies for client presentations.
• Inspiring Environment: The showroom itself is designed to be aesthetically pleasing and inspiring, providing a stimulating environment for creative work.

Work Schedule: This is a full-time position. Retail schedules often require flexibility, including working evenings, weekends, and holidays to accommodate customer traffic and business needs. The nature of design consultations may also involve scheduling appointments outside of standard showroom hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is a blend of a retail sales floor and a design studio. It requires comfort in customer interaction, a professional appearance, and the ability to work collaboratively within a team setting. The role demands flexibility in scheduling to meet client demands.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Typically involves an HR or recruiter screening to assess basic qualifications, interest, and cultural fit.
• Hiring Manager Interview: An interview with the Design Center Leader or Sales Manager to evaluate design skills, sales aptitude, client interaction capabilities, and understanding of the Ethan Allen brand. This may include a discussion of past design projects.
• Skills Assessment/Presentation: Candidates may be asked to present a design project from their portfolio, demonstrating their design process, presentation skills, and ability to articulate their vision. This is a key opportunity to showcase their "portfolio."
• Team Interaction: Potential for meeting with other team members to assess collaboration style and cultural fit within the design center team.
• Final Interview: May involve higher-level management or a review of overall suitability for the role and company.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Projects: Focus on 3-5 of your strongest projects that best represent your design aesthetic, client engagement skills, and ability to achieve sales goals.
• Showcase Process: For each project, walk through the client's initial needs, your design approach (space planning, selections), how you presented the solution, and the final outcome (including sales success if possible).
• Highlight Client Interaction: Emphasize how you listened to clients, managed their expectations, and built rapport.
• Demonstrate Sales Impact: If possible, quantify the success of your designs in terms of sales volume, client satisfaction, or repeat business.
• Visual Presentation: Ensure your portfolio is visually appealing, well-organized, and easy to navigate. Digital portfolios are common and often preferred.
• Tailor to Ethan Allen: Understand Ethan Allen's style and brand. Highlight projects that align with their aesthetic and demonstrate an understanding of their product offerings.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Challenge: Be prepared for a potential design challenge where you might be given a scenario (e.g., a floor plan, client preferences) and asked to create a sample design concept or mood board.
• Sales Scenarios: Practice responding to common sales objections or client questions related to design, pricing, and service.
• Brand Knowledge: Research Ethan Allen's history, product lines, design philosophy, and current marketing initiatives. Be ready to articulate why you want to work for them.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role will heavily weigh design presentation and sales aptitude. The "portfolio" is critical and should be viewed as a demonstration of design thinking, client management, and sales execution. Candidates should be prepared to "sell themselves" and their design capabilities.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM System: Essential for managing client relationships, tracking leads, recording interactions, and managing the sales pipeline. (Specific CRM name not provided, but Salesforce or similar industry-standard platforms are likely).
• Point-of-Sale (POS) System: Used for order entry, processing transactions, and inventory management.
• 3D Room Planner Software: Crucial for creating visual representations of design solutions, space planning, and product placement. Ethan Allen likely uses proprietary or industry-standard software for this.
• Visualization Tools: Experience with AR/VR or other interactive visualization tools is a plus for presenting design concepts.
• Microsoft Office Suite/Google Workspace: Standard productivity tools for communication, documentation, and presentations (Word/Docs, Excel/Sheets, PowerPoint/Slides).

Analytics & Reporting:

• While the consultant may not directly manage complex analytics, they will likely access reports on their individual sales performance, client conversion rates, and product sales data through the CRM or POS systems.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM: Core for client data management and sales process automation.
• Automation: Likely used within the CRM for tasks like follow-up reminders or lead nurturing.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in using proprietary Ethan Allen systems for design, sales, and client management is expected. Experience with general CRM and POS systems is a strong foundation. Familiarity with 3D design software is a key requirement.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Client Focus: Prioritizing client satisfaction and building lasting relationships through exceptional service and personalized design solutions.
• Quality & Craftsmanship: Upholding Ethan Allen's reputation for high-quality, artisan-crafted products and impeccable design execution.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Working cooperatively with colleagues to achieve shared goals, support team members, and maintain a positive showroom environment.
• Professionalism: Representing the Ethan Allen brand with integrity, a polished appearance, and a commitment to excellence in all interactions.
• Efficiency & Adaptability: Utilizing available technologies and processes to manage workload effectively, adapt to client needs, and embrace new tools and methods.

Collaboration Style:

• Team-Oriented Sales: While individual sales performance is key, the culture encourages collaboration to share best practices, support each other in client interactions, and contribute to the overall success of the design center.
• Open Communication: Expectation of open and honest communication with team members and leadership regarding client projects, challenges, and successes.
• Client Service Synergy: Working together to ensure that every client touchpoint, from initial greeting to post-sale follow-up, is seamless and positive.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture values a blend of individual sales drive, creative design talent, and a strong sense of teamwork. The "operations" aspect of the culture lies in adhering to company processes, leveraging technology, and maintaining a high standard of client service through collaborative efforts.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Sales Target Pressure: Consistently meeting or exceeding ambitious sales targets in a commission-based environment can be challenging.
• Client Management Complexity: Balancing the creative demands of design with the practicalities of client budgets, timelines, and preferences requires strong project management and communication skills.
• Market Competition: Differentiating Ethan Allen's offerings and services in a competitive retail landscape.
• Adapting to Trends: Staying current with evolving design trends, product lines, and digital technologies to maintain relevance and appeal to a diverse clientele.
• Building a Client Base: For newer consultants, the initial challenge is establishing a strong network and consistent flow of clients through proactive marketing and exceptional service.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Design Trend Seminars: Access to information and training on the latest interior design trends, color palettes, and product introductions.
• Sales Training Programs: Ongoing development in sales techniques, negotiation, and client relationship management.
• Technology Workshops: Training on new or updated design software, CRM functionalities, and visualization tools.
• Product Knowledge: In-depth training on Ethan Allen's extensive product lines, including customization options and craftsmanship.
• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from experienced Design Center Leaders and senior Design Consultants within the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents challenges common to high-performance sales and design positions. Growth opportunities are tied to mastering sales techniques, deepening design expertise, and effectively utilizing the company's tools and resources. Continuous learning is essential for success.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Philosophy: "Describe your personal design philosophy and how it aligns with the Ethan Allen brand." Prepare to discuss your approach to space planning, color selection, and creating cohesive interiors.
• Client Engagement: "How do you approach building rapport with a new client and understanding their unique needs and style?" Be ready to share examples of successful client interactions and how you managed differing client expectations.
• Sales Process: "Walk me through your typical sales process from initial contact to closing a sale." Highlight your methods for presenting solutions, overcoming objections, and driving a sale to completion.
• Problem-Solving: "Describe a challenging design project you managed. What were the obstacles, and how did you resolve them?" Focus on your problem-solving skills, creativity, and ability to deliver results under pressure.
• Technology Use: "How do you leverage technology, such as design software or social media, to enhance your design services and grow your client base?" Be prepared to discuss your experience with relevant tools.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Brand Alignment: "Why are you interested in working for Ethan Allen specifically, and what do you admire about our brand?" Research their history, values, and product offerings.
• Teamwork: "How do you contribute to a team environment, and what is your approach to collaboration with colleagues?"
• Performance Metrics: "How do you stay motivated to meet sales goals, and how do you track your own performance?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame each portfolio piece as a story: the client's challenge, your creative solution, and the successful outcome.
• Visual Clarity: Ensure images are high-quality and clearly showcase your design work. Use diagrams or sketches to illustrate space planning.
• Quantify Success: Where possible, mention sales figures, client satisfaction ratings, or repeat business generated from the projects.
• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your portfolio efficiently, focusing on key highlights for each project. Practice your narrative.
• Engagement: Make your presentation interactive, inviting questions about your design choices and process.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong blend of creative design talent, effective sales skills, excellent client communication, and an understanding of Ethan Allen's brand and business model. The portfolio is a critical component for showcasing these abilities.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Retail Design Consultant position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the jobs.dayforcehcm.com platform.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight relevant interior design experience, sales achievements, customer service skills, and proficiency with design and sales technologies. Use keywords from the job description.
• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a digital portfolio showcasing your best design projects. Focus on demonstrating your design process, client interaction skills, and ability to achieve successful outcomes, ideally with sales results.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research Ethan Allen's brand, product lines, design aesthetic, and company values. Understand their position in the market and their unique selling propositions.
• Interview Practice: Prepare to discuss your design philosophy, sales approach, and client management strategies. Practice presenting your portfolio and answering behavioral questions related to teamwork, problem-solving, and sales performance. Be ready to articulate why you are a good fit for Ethan Allen's culture.

⚠️ 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.