Sales Consultant (Illinois)

Rural King is America’s Farm and Home Store, providing essentials to the communities we serve. With a wide array of necessities ranging from food and feed to farm and home products, Rural King serves over 150 locations across 17 states and is constantly expanding. Our annual sales exceed $2.5 Billion, and our heart beats in Mattoon, IL, home to our corporate office, distribution center, and flagship store. Customers appreciate our unique shopping experience, complete with complimentary popcorn and coffee. We value our associates and strive to create a positive, rewarding workplace with growth opportunities, competitive benefits, and a people-first environment.

Benefits

• 401(k) plan with 100% match on the first 3% of contributions and 50% of the next 2%
• Healthcare plans to support your needs
• Virtual doctor visits
• Access to Centers of Excellence with Barnes Jewish Hospital and Mayo Clinic’s Complex Care Program
• 15% Associate Discount
• Dave Ramsey’s SmartDollar Program
• Associate Assistance Program
• RK Cares Associate Hardship Program
• 24/7 Chaplaincy Services
• Company paid YMCA Family Membership

Responsibilities

• Provide excellent customer service by helping potential customers find power equipment products that match their specific applications and needs.
• Engage customers in meaningful conversations to understand their specific needs, preferences, and budget constraints using the customer engagement model.
• Assist customers throughout the retail financing process and ensure all requirements are met prior to the release of the tractor.
• Manage the ordering of various types of Power Equipment for store stock as well as customer special orders.
• Assist with receiving, moving, and displaying power equipment products.
• Follow the Indoor Merchandising Guide to ensure all products are set and maintained to company standards.
• Conduct power equipment demonstrations when necessary.
• Assist customers in locating items within the store and recommend suitable alternatives if a product is unavailable.
• Actively listen to customer concerns, address questions or issues promptly, and provide resolutions or escalate to a supervisor if required.
• Collect customer contact information for follow-up on out-of-stock items, customer orders, or new product arrivals.
• Establish and maintain long-term customer relationships to generate repeat business and referrals.
• Provide expert advice and product knowledge on a wide range of products such as power equipment, live animals, heating, fencing, batteries, lawn care, and pools.
• Demonstrate product features and benefits, conduct product demonstrations, and explain technical specifications as needed.
• Utilize upselling and cross-selling techniques to maximize sales and increase the average transaction value.
• Promote exclusive offers and store loyalty programs.
• Process special orders, operate the POS register, and resolve return issues.
• Collaborate with team members to achieve sales targets and foster a cooperative work environment.
• Participate in training sessions to stay updated on product knowledge, sales techniques, and company policies.
• Contribute to visual merchandising efforts by zoning product displays, ensuring proper signage, and maintaining a clean sales floor.
• Work outdoors in various weather conditions such as heat, cold, rain, snow, and wind depending on location.
• Participate in cross-training for flexibility in various departments and responsibilities.
• Actively engage in learning initiatives like training programs, workshops, and webinars to acquire new skills and stay current on developments.
• Provide friendly, proactive, and professional support to both internal and external inquiries, concerns, and issues.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• 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 and provide exceptional service.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and 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 willingness to deal with rejection.
• Excellent negotiation and conflict resolution skills.
• Initiative to devise sales strategies and work under pressure.
• Demonstrated integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.

Skills

• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.
• Comfortable navigating computer systems and software to assist customers or manage activities.

Physical Requirements

• Ability 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.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

Pay

The pay range for this position is $16.00 - $19.50 per hour, with exact compensation determined by factors such as relevant geographic location, education, certifications, experience, job level, shift, and organizational needs. Eligible associates may also receive overtime pay in compliance with applicable laws.