Sales Consultant (Illinois)

Overview

Rural King is America’s Farm and Home Store, serving over 150 locations across 17 states. Founded in Mattoon, IL, our corporate office, distribution center, and flagship store showcase our commitment to rural communities. We offer a unique shopping experience with complimentary popcorn and coffee, and we strive to create a positive, rewarding workplace for our associates.

Responsibilities

• Assist customers with finding power equipment products that meet their specific applications and needs.
• Engage customers in meaningful conversations to understand their needs, preferences, and budget constraints.
• Aid in the retail financing process and ensure all requirements are met.
• Manage the ordering of power equipment for store stock and customer special orders.
• Assist with receiving, moving, and displaying power equipment products.
• Follow the Indoor Merchandising Guide to maintain company standards.
• Conduct power equipment demonstrations as needed.
• Help customers locate items within the store and recommend suitable alternatives.
• Address customer concerns promptly and provide appropriate resolutions or escalate to a supervisor.
• Collect customer contact information for follow-up purposes.
• Build and maintain long-term relationships with customers to generate repeat business and referrals.
• Provide expert advice and product knowledge on a variety of products including power equipment, live animals, heating, fencing, batteries, lawn care, pools, etc.
• Demonstrate product features and benefits, conduct product demonstrations, and explain technical specifications.
• Utilize upselling and cross-selling techniques to maximize sales and increase the average unit per transaction.
• Promote exclusive offers and awareness of the store loyalty program.
• Process special orders, operate the POS register, and resolve return issues as needed.
• Collaborate with team members to achieve sales targets and foster a cooperative work environment.
• Participate in training sessions and stay updated on product knowledge, sales techniques, and company policies and procedures.
• Work outdoors in various weather conditions as necessary.
• Participate in cross-training for flexibility in various departments and responsibilities.
• Leverage learning initiatives to acquire new knowledge, refine skills, and stay current on industry developments.
• Provide friendly, proactive, and professional support to others, assisting with inquiries, concerns, and issues promptly and effectively.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; additional education or certifications in agriculture or related fields is a plus.
• Proven experience in a sales or customer service role, preferably in a retail environment.
• Deep knowledge and passion for agriculture, farm equipment, tools, and home essentials.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build rapport with customers and provide exceptional service.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and the capacity to handle customer inquiries and concerns effectively.
• Results-driven mindset with a focus on achieving sales targets and driving revenue growth.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and adapt to changing customer demands.
• Basic computer skills for point-of-sale transactions and inventory management systems.
• Resilience and a willingness to deal with rejection.
• Excellent negotiation and conflict resolution skills.
• Initiative to devise sales strategies and work under pressure.
• Demonstrated behaviors must reflect integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
• Comfortable navigating computer systems and software to assist customers or manage activities.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to sit or stand for prolonged periods of time.
• Ability to lift, push, and/or pull a minimum of 30 pounds repetitively and 31-50 pounds intermittently.
• Must be able to verbally communicate effectively with others (in-person and via electronic devices).
• Must have close visual awareness.
• Ability to use a ladder and/or pallet jack.
• Ability to walk up and down stairs multiple times per day.