About the position
The Design Consultant at Ethan Allen plays a pivotal role in creating individualized design solutions that cater to the unique preferences and budgets of customers. This position involves working closely with clients in various settings, including the design center, remotely, online, or directly in the customer's home. The primary objective is to sell Ethan Allen products and services through effective design strategies that encompass space planning, fabric coordination, product selection, and overall project design. Success in this role is measured by the ability to develop tailored designs and achieve sales goals within a flexible, relationship-based selling environment. Some projects may necessitate collaboration with a team or partnership approach, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and communication skills. Design Consultants are evaluated based on several performance categories, including teamwork, customer service, communication skills, decision-making, project development, presentation, and technical skills. They are also assessed against specific benchmarks such as Minimum Monthly Sales, Home Calls, Accent Sales, Softgood Sales, Be-Backs, PI, Close Ratio, and participation in the Ethan Allen Trade Program. A strong understanding of social media platforms is essential, as Design Consultants are expected to utilize these channels to promote the Ethan Allen brand in accordance with the company's Social Media Policy. Compensation for this role is primarily incentive-based, with total earnings determined by commissions from sales, and Design Consultants are expected to meet or exceed established sales benchmarks. This is a full-time position that requires a proactive approach to customer engagement and a commitment to staying current with design and color trends. Design Consultants must also coordinate with their team to ensure exceptional service is provided to customers before and after sales, keeping them informed about order statuses and any potential delays. Participation in corporate-sponsored marketing and training programs is also a key responsibility, along with educating customers about the various financing options available through Ethan Allen. Overall, the role demands a blend of creativity, sales acumen, and technical proficiency in design tools and technologies.
Responsibilities
- Create design solutions that align with customer preferences and budgets.
- Sell Ethan Allen's products and services effectively.
- Represent the Ethan Allen brand in all customer interactions, establishing rapport and securing appointments.
- Conduct home visits to assess customer needs and provide tailored design solutions that lead to sales closures.
- Utilize grassroots marketing and social media platforms to grow the business.
- Educate customers about the complimentary design services offered by Ethan Allen.
- Stay updated on design and color trends to create fashionable solutions.
- Coordinate with the team to ensure exceptional customer service before and after sales.
- Participate in corporate-sponsored marketing and training programs as required.
- Educate customers on available financing options through Ethan Allen.
- Contribute to the development and maintenance of the design center's portfolio.
- Utilize corporate systems and technology for project design and presentations.
- Enter orders using the retail point of sale system.
- Maintain a neat and orderly design center environment.
- Collaborate with the Design Center Leader and team to develop business and marketing plans.
- Utilize technology such as 3-D Room Planner and CRM to enhance project volume and client relationships.
- Leverage social media to enhance personal and company presence and build a professional network.
- Perform any other duties as required.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree or equivalent in a design-related field from an accredited institution.
- Minimum of one year of practical interior design experience.
- Broad knowledge of interior design and effective sales techniques.
- Working knowledge of online sales and design tools.
- Good listening skills with excellent oral and written communication skills.
- General understanding of social media and grassroots marketing for business development.
- Valid driver's license or an acceptable alternative means of transportation during business hours.
- Intermediate skill competency using digital floor planning technology; experience with 3D applications is a plus.
- Experience with interactive technology for design concepts, such as augmented reality and virtual reality.
- Willingness and capability to learn new technologies.
Nice-to-haves
- Experience in using social media for business development and marketing.
- Proven experience in sales and customer service within the interior design industry.
Benefits
- Incentive-based compensation with total earnings determined by commissions.
- Non-recoverable draw during the first three months of employment for training purposes.
