6 Tips to Securing a Career in the Cannabis Industry

With medical marijuana laws established in over half of the 50 states, and
several in the midst of implementing adult use, some experts argue cannabis
is the fastest growing industry in the U.S. Certainly there will continue
to be thousands of new cannabis-related jobs available, but who will snag
them and how?

Danielle Barber, a wellness consultant for 10 years at Harborside Health
Center in Oakland, offers this advice to aspiring cannabis professionals:

“The people who stand out the most are the ones who connect. Having a
beautifully written resume and cover letter can certainly help get you the
interview, but establishing a true connection with the interviewee and
sharing your story can help get you the job,” she said. “Why do you want to
enter the cannabis industry? If your answer is not a noble one, that
usually gets you overlooked. Demonstrating an ability to be flexible and a
desire to learn will help you keep the job once you get it.”

And yes, it is an exciting career path, but it is not guaranteed to be the
most fun and easy job you’ve ever had. It might actually be a challenging
and exhausting job for a range of reasons:

- Getting paid in cash is not as glamorous as it sounds.
- Patients often expect staff to give detailed medical advice, but staff
are rarely given sufficient training.
- Most jobs are retail sales, manual labor, or middle management with
the added challenge of constantly shifting legality and pressure from all
levels of government.

Here are some other great tips for getting a career in cannabis:
1. *Decide What You Want*

Are you open to working for recreational companies, or do you prefer to
work for a medical facility? Do you want to be self-employed, or would you
rather work for a company or non-profit? Do you prefer working with people
or plants? Focus on your cover letter and resume, and tailor them for each
position. Decide in advance what you can and cannot compromise, such as how
much do you need to get paid, how far are you able to commute and are there
tasks you’re not willing or able to perform?
2. Don’t Settle

Make sure you’re getting a legal job for a legal company. At least the
basic aspects of your job description and pay rate should be in
writing. Take the time to read and understand anything they ask you to sign
*before* signing. If the pay rate is not sustainable, do not accept the job
unless you are able to negotiate a living wage.
3. *Take Your Time*

Yes, the cannabis industry is young, but the cannabis reform movement has
existed for decades and some dispensaries have been operating legally for
over 15 years. You should not expect to change procedures or marketing
campaigns too quickly unless that is what you were hired to do. If you push
management to make too many changes too quickly, they are likely to feel
offended, threatened or overwhelmed. Fresh energy is usually appreciated,
but use caution when criticizing an already existing operation. Build trust
before suggesting changes.
*4. Keep Calm and Network*

Despite the fast pace of this industry, hiring and promotions often happen
slowly. Be patient, not pushy. Utilize social media to identify which
organizations and events are the best investment of your time and
donations. However, use social media sparingly when following up with
potential connections – email or in person is better when the relationship
is new. For more in-person networking, attend job fairs, workshops and city
meetings, volunteer at conferences to receive free registration and
patronize a range of dispensaries and other businesses to learn and build a
report with potential colleagues.
*5**. Work With a Staffing Company*

Cannabis staffing companies can help you identify companies who share your
values. Recruiters can give you feedback on your resume, such as advice on
whether or not to include illegal cannabis experience. You also might
benefit from interview prep with a professional. Some staffing companies
offer mentorships — don’t pass up an opportunity to build a relationship
with a mentor who has experience in the industry!
*6**. Follow the Same Advice as any Other Industry*

Use appropriate language and etiquette. Don’t use slang, abbreviations or
emojis when corresponding. Act and dress professionally for events and
interviews. Maintain a current LinkedIn profile with a professional photo.
Consider obtaining relevant education through a respected training program
such as Oaksterdam University or a continuing education seminar. Educate
yourself on the history of the cannabis movement — companies will need to
maintain a commitment to the social justice aspects of the business in
order to compete. As with any other job application, don’t exaggerate your
experience. This will backfire when your employer realizes you lied.

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