Overview of the Design Studio Specialist role
Design Studio Specialists are responsible for delivering outstanding interior decorating and design services to West Elm customers, both in-store and through in-home consultations. They combine design expertise with sales acumen to help customers transform their spaces.
Who You Are
- Love to sell, can articulate a proven ability to exceed selling goals & most importantly can close a sale
- Succeed in a team environment, while able to work independently & manage your own time
- Enjoy being hands‑on with product & functions well both in-store & in the customers’ home
- Recognize that every customer has individualized needs & aesthetics & can cater your designs accordingly
- Thrive in an entrepreneurial environment & are constantly looking for ways to think outside‑the‑box
- Have an obsession for interior decorating, architecture, art, creativity, craft, artisans & neighborhood treasures
- Keep your finger on the pulse of design trends both globally & in your local community
- Know what questions to ask your customers in order to understand their personal style & needs
Responsibilities
- Drive sales & achieve sales goals per hour, by connecting customers to you & West Elm
- Inspire associates & customers by connecting them to design trends, inspiration & local resources that reflect the eclectic, creative & modern spirit of the brand
- Develop & manage relationships with clients, designers, developers, local businesses & artisans
- Prioritize the customer & collaborate with your team to ensure adequate selling floor coverage during in-store or in‑home appointments
- Discover each customer’s style by sparking conversation, sharing inspiration & consulting with them to learn how to bring their story to life
- Share decorating expertise & develop thoughtful space plans that fit the customers’ lifestyle
- Advise customers on where to access design resources for products & services that may be unavailable at West Elm (wallpaper, appliances, re‑upholsterer, etc.)
- Share the stories, collaborations & craft behind our products to bring them to life for our customer
- Develop vision boards, floor plans & utilize mood boards to help customers express their personal style at home
Qualifications
- 1–2 years of home furnishing, interior decorating experience and/or interior design education
- Excellent communication skills & passion for working with people
- Excitement for the brand & products we sell
- Must be able to spend ample time on the sales floor focusing on customer needs
- Willingness to travel for in‑home consultations; if driving your personal vehicle, proof of the state‑required auto liability insurance or proof of financial responsibility & a state‑issued driver’s license is required
- Must be able to lift & mobilize medium to large items, up to 75 lbs., while utilizing appropriate equipment & safety techniques
Availability
- Full‑time associates are expected to have open availability to meet the needs of the business
- Part‑time associates must be available to work a minimum of two regularly scheduled shifts on the weekend (Friday, Saturday and/or Sunday) and two during the week (Monday to Thursday), and must be available for annual inventory and the entire holiday season (November and December)
- Example: Weekend availability cannot fall on the same day; an associate must be available on two separate days (e.g., Friday & Saturday, Friday & Sunday, or Saturday & Sunday). If preferred, an associate can also choose to have all three shifts of availability on the weekend (Friday to Sunday) and none during the week
Benefits Just For You
- A generous discount on all Williams‑Sonoma, Inc. brands
- A 401(k) plan and other investment opportunities
- A wellness program that supports your physical, financial and emotional health
- Paid vacations and holidays (full‑time)
- Health benefits, dental and vision insurance, including same‑sex domestic partner benefits (full‑time)
Your Journey in Continued Learning
- Individual development plans and career pathing conversations
- Annual performance appraisals
- Cross‑brand and cross‑functional career opportunities
- Online learning opportunities through brand‑specific resources and WSI University
- Leadership development opportunities
Williams‑Sonoma, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Williams‑Sonoma, Inc. will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, or other applicable state or local laws and ordinances.