Retail Interior Design Consultant

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Retail Interior Design Consultant Company: Ethan Allen Global Inc Location: Lexington, Kentucky, United States Job Type: Full-Time Category: Sales & Design Operations Date Posted: January 30, 2026 Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years) Remote Status: Hybrid (combination of in-studio and remote/in-home client consultations)

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is a client-facing sales and design position focused on driving revenue through personalized interior design solutions.
• The Design Consultant will leverage a combination of in-studio, remote, and in-home consultations to understand client needs and propose Ethan Allen products.
• Success will be measured by achieving sales goals, developing client relationships, and effectively utilizing company-provided design and sales tools.
• Emphasis is placed on utilizing social media and grassroots marketing to build a strong client base and promote the Ethan Allen brand.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Retail Interior Design Consultant," the core responsibilities and compensation structure (commission-based with a recoverable draw) indicate a strong sales-oriented role within the design space, rather than a purely operational or support function. This role sits at the intersection of sales, client relationship management, and interior design execution.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop individualized interior design solutions for clients, encompassing space planning, fabric coordination, and product selection, aligning with client preferences and budget.
• Actively sell Ethan Allen's comprehensive range of home furnishings, custom furniture, and artisan-crafted accents.
• Represent the Ethan Allen brand professionally, greeting customers in the design center, establishing rapport, and securing appointments for in-home consultations.
• Conduct in-home consultations to assess client needs and present tailored design solutions that lead to sales closure.
• Utilize grassroots marketing strategies and various social media platforms to cultivate and expand business opportunities.
• Educate clients on Ethan Allen's complimentary interior design services, adapting the level of service to individual client needs.
• Stay abreast of current design and color trends to create fashionable and relevant design proposals.
• Collaborate with the design center team to ensure exceptional customer service throughout the sales cycle, including proactive communication on order status and any potential delays.
• Participate in corporate-sponsored marketing initiatives and training programs to enhance skills and product knowledge.
• Inform customers about available Ethan Allen sponsored finance options to facilitate purchasing decisions.
• Contribute to the development and maintenance of the design center's portfolio, showcasing successful client projects.
• Leverage corporate systems and technology, such as 3D Room Planner and CRM, to optimize design processes, create presentations, and deliver professional client service.
• Process customer orders accurately using the retail point-of-sale system.
• Maintain a neat, orderly, and visually appealing design center environment.
• Collaborate with the Design Center Leader and fellow consultants to develop and execute business and grassroots marketing plans aimed at expanding market reach and achieving sales objectives, providing feedback for plan adjustments.
• Employ technology platforms like CRM and Live Chat to build project volume and foster productive relationships with both prospective and existing clients.
• Utilize social media channels (e.g., Facebook, Instagram) to enhance personal and the Ethan Allen brand's online presence, and network with professionals via platforms like LinkedIn to build market connections.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role requires a proactive approach to business development, integrating digital marketing with traditional in-person sales and design consultation. The emphasis on "closing the sale" and "achieving sales goals" positions this as a revenue-generating role, with operations support focused on enabling sales through efficient processes and technology.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Minimum High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a design-related field from an accredited institution is desirable.

Experience:

• Minimum of one (1) year of practical interior design experience.
• Proven experience in grassroots marketing and social media utilization for business development is preferred.

Required Skills:

• Broad knowledge of interior design principles, styles, and trends.
• Effective sales techniques and a proven ability to close sales.
• Excellent listening skills with strong oral and written communication abilities.
• Proficiency in utilizing social media platforms for networking and brand promotion.
• Ability to conduct professional client consultations, both in-studio and in-home.
• Skill in space planning and fabric coordination.
• Competency in using digital floor planning technology and 3D applications.
• Aptitude for learning and adopting new technologies.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation for client visits.
• Ability to work cooperatively within a team environment.
• Strong customer service orientation.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with interactive visualization tools such as augmented reality (AR) or virtual reality (VR).
• Familiarity with CRM systems for client management and sales tracking.
• Knowledge of financing options and their presentation to clients.
• Experience in developing and executing marketing plans.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience level is noted as "Entry-Level (0-2 years)" based on the minimum requirement of one year of practical experience. However, the salary range and the expectation of driving significant sales suggest that candidates with more experience, particularly in commission-based sales environments, may be more successful.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a range of completed interior design projects that demonstrate space planning, product selection, and aesthetic coordination.
• Include case studies illustrating the design process from initial client consultation to final installation, highlighting problem-solving and client satisfaction.
• Present examples of how you've utilized design tools and software (e.g., 3D rendering, mood boards) to communicate design concepts effectively.
• Demonstrate your ability to manage a project from conception to completion, including budget considerations and timeline adherence.

Process Documentation:

• Be prepared to discuss your personal process for client engagement, including initial needs assessment, design development, presentation, and closing the sale.
• Outline your methodology for staying current with design trends and incorporating them into client proposals.
• Detail your approach to leveraging technology (e.g., CRM, design software, social media) to manage client relationships and streamline the design and sales process.
• Explain how you track and measure the success of your design projects and sales efforts.

📝 Enhancement Note: While no explicit portfolio submission is requested in the raw data, the role's nature and the mention of contributing to the design center's portfolio imply that candidates should be prepared to present examples of their work and design process during the interview stages, particularly for case study or presentation exercises.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Recoverable Draw: Typically $30,000 - $70,000 annually, based on written sales.
• Potential Income: Average $70,000 - $115,000 annually for experienced consultants.
• Top Performers: Potential to earn $200,000+ per year.

Benefits:

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

Working Hours:

• Full-Time position.
• Expected to meet or exceed Minimum Monthly Sales and other benchmarks.
• Flexible schedule may be required to accommodate client needs, including evenings and weekends.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary structure is commission-based with a recoverable draw, a common model in sales roles. The provided range reflects a significant earning potential, heavily influenced by sales performance. The "potential income" figures are key for candidates to understand the target earnings. The benefits list is extensive and typical for a full-time role.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Furniture Retail & Interior Design. Ethan Allen is recognized as a leading premium furniture retailer, blending technology with personalized service. Company Size: Large Enterprise (Ethan Allen Global Inc. is a publicly traded company with a significant retail footprint). Founded: Over 90 years ago, indicating a stable, established brand with a long history of craftsmanship and customer relations.

Team Structure:

• The Design Consultant will be part of a Design Center team, likely including a Design Center Leader or Design Sales Leader, and other Design Consultants.
• There is an expectation of teamwork and collaboration for exceptional customer service.
• The role involves interaction with various corporate departments for marketing, training, and operational support.

Methodology:

• Client-centric approach: Focus on understanding and fulfilling individual customer design needs and preferences.
• Relationship-based selling: Emphasis on building long-lasting client relationships.
• Blend of technology and personal service: Utilizing digital tools alongside in-person interaction.
• Data-driven performance: Measurement against specific sales benchmarks and performance categories.
• Commitment to quality and craftsmanship: Reflecting the company's heritage in manufacturing.

Company Website: https://www.ethanallen.com/ (Inferred from company name and industry)

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture values entrepreneurial drive, talent, and the ability to build client relationships, aligning with a commission-driven sales environment. The blend of established tradition (craftsmanship) and modern approach (technology, social media) is a key differentiator.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a "Design Consultant" with an emphasis on sales, fitting within a retail sales and design career track. It's an individual contributor role focused on revenue generation.

Reporting Structure:

• Reports to the Design Center Leader/Design Sales Leader.
• Works collaboratively with other Design Consultants and potentially design support staff.

Operations Impact:

• Direct impact on revenue generation for the design center and the company.
• Influence on customer satisfaction and brand loyalty through exceptional design and service.
• Contributes to the overall success and profitability of the local design center and the broader Ethan Allen brand.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement to Senior Design Consultant or specialized design roles within Ethan Allen.
• Potential to move into leadership positions such as Design Center Leader or Sales Manager.
• Opportunities for continued learning and development in interior design, sales techniques, and technology.
• Potential to develop a strong personal brand and client book, leading to higher earning potential.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path is primarily sales-focused, with opportunities for increased earning potential and leadership within the retail operations structure. Success in this role can pave the way for management or specialized design roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Design Center/Studio environment. This is a retail showroom setting designed to showcase Ethan Allen products and inspire clients. Office Location(s): Lexington, Kentucky. The specific design center location within Lexington would be provided during the application process.

Workspace Context:

• Professional and aesthetically pleasing showroom environment.
• Access to design resources, product samples, fabric libraries, and digital design tools (e.g., 3D Room Planner).
• Collaborative space where team members can share insights and support each other.
• Client-focused area for consultations, presentations, and order processing.

Work Schedule:

• Full-time.
• May require flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays to accommodate client availability and peak retail periods.
• The role involves a mix of time spent in the design center, conducting in-home client consultations, and potentially remote work for client follow-up and design development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role involves significant client interaction, both in the showroom and in their homes, requiring adaptability and excellent time management to balance in-person appointments with design work and administrative tasks.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and application to assess qualifications and experience alignment.
• First Interview: Likely with the Design Center Leader/Design Sales Leader. Focus on sales aptitude, design passion, understanding of the Ethan Allen brand, and initial assessment of communication and interpersonal skills. May include role-playing scenarios.
• Second Interview/Presentation: Candidates may be asked to present a design concept for a hypothetical client or a past project. This assesses design skills, presentation abilities, and understanding of the sales process. It's an opportunity to showcase their portfolio.
• Final Interview: Potentially with a regional manager or HR, focusing on cultural fit, long-term career aspirations, and final confirmation of qualifications.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Projects: Showcase 3-5 diverse projects that highlight your range, from concept to completion. Emphasize projects that demonstrate your ability to solve design challenges and meet client objectives.
• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the client's needs, your design approach, the specific Ethan Allen products used, and the successful outcome. Quantify results where possible (e.g., client satisfaction, budget adherence).
• Highlight Process: Include visuals of your design process – mood boards, space plans, 3D renderings, fabric selections. This demonstrates your technical and creative workflow.
• Showcase Sales Acumen: If possible, subtly weave in how your design recommendations led to successful sales and client relationships.
• Tailor to Ethan Allen: If you have experience with similar brands or a style that aligns with Ethan Allen's aesthetic, highlight that.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Presentation: Be prepared to create and present a design concept for a given scenario (e.g., a living room for a young family, a home office for a remote worker) within a limited timeframe. Focus on selecting Ethan Allen products that meet the client's needs and budget.
• Sales Scenario Role-Play: Practice responding to common client objections, upselling techniques, and closing strategies.
• Brand Knowledge: Research Ethan Allen's product lines, design philosophy, history, and current marketing initiatives. Be ready to articulate why you want to work for them.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is expected to heavily weigh sales skills, client interaction, and the ability to translate design concepts into tangible sales, given the commission-based compensation structure. A strong portfolio and presentation skills are critical.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM System: To manage client interactions, track leads, schedule appointments, and monitor sales pipeline (e.g., Salesforce, or Ethan Allen's proprietary CRM).
• 3D Room Planner/Design Software: For creating visual representations of client spaces and furniture layouts. Ethan Allen explicitly mentions "3-D Room Planner" and "3D applications."
• Retail Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing orders, payments, and managing transactions.
• Live Chat: For online customer engagement and lead generation.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Internal sales reporting tools to track individual performance against benchmarks (Minimum Monthly Sales, Home Calls, Accent Sales, Softgood Sales, Be-Backs, PI, Close Ratio, Trade Program participation).
• Potentially tools for analyzing customer data to identify trends and opportunities.

CRM & Automation:

• Utilizing the CRM for workflow automation in client follow-up and lead nurturing.
• Understanding of how to integrate design tools with CRM for seamless client management.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with 3D design software and CRM systems is crucial. Candidates should highlight any experience with visualization tools, AR/VR, and digital floor planning technologies, as these are specifically mentioned as desirable.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Client Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and delivering exceptional design solutions and service.
• Craftsmanship & Quality: Upholding Ethan Allen's reputation for high-quality furniture and artisanal products.
• Collaboration: Working effectively within the design center team to support clients and achieve collective goals.
• Entrepreneurial Spirit: Proactively seeking new business opportunities and driving personal sales performance.
• Continuous Improvement: Willingness to learn new technologies, design trends, and sales techniques.
• Integrity: Representing the Ethan Allen brand with professionalism and honesty.

Collaboration Style:

• Team-oriented approach within the design center, sharing knowledge and supporting colleagues.
• Cross-functional collaboration with marketing, training, and operations teams at a corporate level.
• Open communication regarding client needs, project status, and business development strategies.
• Encouragement of sharing best practices and feedback for process optimization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture appears to balance individual achievement (sales targets) with team support and a strong brand ethos centered on quality and client relationships. Candidates should demonstrate an ability to thrive in both autonomous and collaborative settings.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Commission-Based Income: The reliance on commission for a significant portion of income can be a challenge for those accustomed to fixed salaries, requiring consistent sales performance.
• Market Competition: Operating in a competitive retail furniture market demands strong differentiation and exceptional client engagement.
• Balancing Design and Sales: Effectively integrating creative design skills with assertive sales techniques to meet both client needs and revenue targets.
• Client Management: Handling diverse client personalities, budgets, and expectations, and managing potential delays or issues post-sale.
• Adapting to Technology: Keeping pace with evolving design software, CRM functionalities, and digital marketing tools.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Sales Training: Continuous training on sales techniques, negotiation, and closing strategies.
• Design Education: Opportunities to learn about new product lines, design trends, and advanced design principles.
• Technology Adoption: Training on new design software, visualization tools, and digital marketing platforms.
• Mentorship: Potential to learn from experienced Design Consultants and Leaders.
• Product Knowledge: Deep dive into Ethan Allen's extensive product catalog and customization options.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenge is tied to performance in a commission-driven sales environment. Growth opportunities are geared towards enhancing sales acumen, design expertise, and technological proficiency, which can lead to higher earnings and career advancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Tell me about a time you had to balance a client's aesthetic preferences with their budget. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" (Assesses problem-solving, negotiation, and sales skills).
• "Describe your process for developing an interior design proposal from initial client contact to final presentation." (Evaluates design methodology, client engagement, and presentation skills).
• "How do you stay current with interior design trends, and how do you incorporate them into your client work?" (Tests industry awareness and creative application).
• "Imagine a client is hesitant about a particular fabric or furniture piece. How would you overcome their objection and guide them towards a decision?" (Probes sales techniques and persuasive communication).
• "How would you use social media and grassroots marketing to build your client base for Ethan Allen in Lexington?" (Assesses business development and marketing strategy).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for Ethan Allen specifically, and what do you admire about our brand?" (Tests research and brand alignment).
• "How do you approach building long-term relationships with clients?" (Evaluates client management and loyalty-building approach).
• "Describe your ideal work environment and how you collaborate with team members." (Assesses cultural fit and teamwork).
• "What are your sales goals, and how do you plan to achieve them in this role?" (Gauges ambition and sales drive).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Begin with an overview of your design philosophy and approach. Then, walk through 2-3 key projects, explaining the client brief, your design solution, the products used, and the successful outcome.
• Visuals: Use high-quality images, floor plans, and renderings. Ensure your digital portfolio is easily navigable.
• Quantify: Whenever possible, use metrics to demonstrate success (e.g., achieved X% of the client's budget, increased home sale value by Y%, received Z% positive feedback).
• Emphasize Sales: Subtly highlight how your design choices led to successful sales and client satisfaction. Connect your design solutions to Ethan Allen's product offerings.
• Engage: Be prepared for questions about your process, design choices, and how you would adapt your approach for Ethan Allen clients.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of design creativity, persuasive sales skills, strong client relationship management, and an understanding of Ethan Allen's brand and product offerings. Be ready to "sell yourself" as effectively as you would sell Ethan Allen products.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided job link on the Dayforce platform.
• Curate Your Portfolio: Prepare a digital portfolio showcasing 2-3 of your best interior design projects. Ensure it highlights your process, space planning abilities, product selection, and client outcomes. Tailor examples to demonstrate your understanding of residential design and your ability to work within a brand like Ethan Allen.
• Optimize Your Resume: Highlight relevant experience in interior design, sales, customer service, and any proven success in lead generation or closing sales. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Exceeded sales targets by 15%," "Managed a client portfolio of 50+ individuals"). Include keywords such as "interior design," "sales," "client consultation," "space planning," "product selection," and "CRM."
• Practice Your Pitch: Rehearse your "elevator pitch" explaining your passion for design and sales, and why you're a strong fit for Ethan Allen. Prepare to articulate your design process and sales approach concisely. Practice presenting a hypothetical design scenario.
• Research Ethan Allen: Thoroughly familiarize yourself with Ethan Allen's brand, history, product lines, design aesthetic, and current marketing efforts. Understand their position in the market and what makes them unique. Prepare to discuss what attracts you to their specific brand.

⚠️ 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.