Design Consultant

Title: Design Consultant Location: Washington, DC Compensation: The base salary range for this position is $65,000.00 - $75,000.00/year, per year depending on experience and qualifications, plus eligibility for monthly individual commissions and team‑based incentives. About The Shade Store® At The Shade Store, we have handcrafted the finest Shades, Blinds, and Drapery for 75 years. We believe designing beautiful custom window treatments should be an effortless experience, so we offer outstanding services to help our customers every step of the way, from inspiration to installation. We are always looking for friendly, passionate individuals to join our team and deliver the finest custom window treatment experience. Our team is expanding, and there has never been a more exciting time to be a part of it. Position Summary As a Showroom Design Consultant, you will provide personalized design consultations, drive sales, and support the company’s initiatives. Leveraging your expertise in high‑touch customer service and project management, you’ll create exceptional customer experience and contribute to the showroom’s success. Work Activities and Tasks Design Consultation & Sales Provide expert design and room solution guidance to customers through in‑person, virtual, and in‑home consultations. Clearly explain the benefits of our custom products to provide expert solutioning on customer projects. Drive sales through company customer platforms to maintain a healthy pipeline and achieve sales goals. Nurture and grow company‑assigned leads and actively seek new consumer and trade opportunities. Develop and maintain relationships with local interior designers, architects, and contractors, tailoring consultations to their needs and participating in trade events to enhance our industry presence. Collaborate with field leaders to drive sales by leveraging their expertise. Identify opportunities, share best practices, and develop strategies to enhance customer engagement and boost sales performance. Customer Experience & Team Support Act as a customer advocate by ensuring their needs and concerns are addressed throughout the design, sales and installation process. Ensure seamless customer experience by timely addressing any issues with scheduling, installation, or shipping for all customers. Be a brand ambassador in your customer interactions and within your market. Promote teamwork and collaboration with showroom peers, production, client services, and measure & install teams to ensure a seamless and smooth customer experience. Foster a professional and positive environment in the showroom recognizing team achievements and maintaining a supportive team dynamic. Participate in ongoing training and business meetings to stay updated on products and technology, using tech platforms and tools efficiently. Showroom Operations Assist in managing daily showroom operations to create a clean and inviting environment for customers. Play an active role in merchandising updates, product launches, and showroom design enhancements. Ensure all showroom displays are fully operational and showcase products effectively. Be flexible to support showroom coverage within the market. Core Skills Customer Engagement: Exhibits a customer‑first welcoming attitude, engaging with customers and prioritizing their experience above all tasks. Solution‑Oriented: Provide creative, solution‑oriented options that resolve customer needs/concerns. Product Knowledge: Leverage a deep understanding of product features and benefits to communicate effectively with customers to ensure a successful installation. Proactive Communication: Respond promptly and proactively to both internal and external inquiries. Sales Acumen: Shows strong ability to manage multiple tasks and projects, confidently closing sales while effectively promoting additional products and features. Attention to Detail: Ensure projects are completed to a high standard, paying close attention to details and timelines. Technical Proficiency: Navigate tech platforms and utilize tools, including CRM systems, to streamline workflows effectively. Continuous Improvement: Commitment to learning and development while reflecting on past projects to identify areas for improvement and adapt strategies accordingly. Minimum Qualifications Experience: 3‑5 years in retail, design, sales, project management or customer service with a focus on a high‑end experience. Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Outlook, Teams, and CRM systems (Salesforce, NetSuite, etc.) is preferred. Education: Associate or bachelor’s Degree in a related field preferred or equivalent experience. Proof of legal authorization to work in the United States (confirmed by E‑Verify within three business days of hire date). Benefits and Perks Competitive salary Medical benefits 401(k) with company match Up to $100,000 life insurance & short‑term disability (employer‑paid) Legal and pet insurance plans Employee assistance program Product discount The Shade Store provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. #J-18808-Ljbffr