Want to Start a Career in the Legal Cannabis Industry? Here’s what You Need to Know First
The cannabis industry is officially hiring, and there are tons of positions available at all skills levels. At the time of writing, it is estimated that over 210,000 Americans are now working full time in the industry in legal states, and we can only expect this to grow as more states are legalizing it and as public opinion about the plant is rapidly changing.
However, while there are tons or opportunities open, that doesn’t mean that anyone can get in. As a matter of fact, those with the right set of specializations are those that are the most in need at the moment. Let’s take a look at what you should know before you start a career in the legal cannabis industry.
Know Your Strengths
Before you start looking at careers, you first have to take inventory of your strengths and how they could best serve the industry. You also have to look at what type of setting you’d like to work in. This could be as diverse as working in a lab, or working as part of a marketing team. Your strengths and interests have to go well beyond the plant, and you should take a look at what skills you possess. This will then allow you to narrow down your choices.
Look at Different Career Paths
There are a wide number of careers in the industry, and they all have a different career path. Some don’t require that you get a college education, like dispensary clerks or harvesters. Note that these roles could be a great way to springboard yourself into a higher position. For example, someone who has worked as a clerk for many years could transition into management with the right qualifications.
Just doing something as simple as getting a certificate in cannabis control could make you a prime candidate for this kind of role. You could follow the Excelsior College Cannabis Control certificate program completely online in as little as 6 months and get it while you keep your current position.
There are tons of different paths that you can consider. Some could use your current qualifications without needing prior experience in the industry, so you should consider these as well.
Keep Your Expectations Realistic
Without specific qualifications, making a good living in the cannabis industry can be tough. A lot of businesses are still in their growth stage and might be more focused on that than on payroll. So, while it’s possible to get an entry-level job with little to no experience and no degree, it won’t be easy. Your best bet would be to find something you’re great at, and transition it to the business.
If you’re great at graphic design or that’s an interest of yours, then look into packaging. If you’re good at accounting, then there are plenty of CFO and COO jobs that are available. Specialization will really be the best way to get in the field and make it an actual career.
So, if you want to start a lucrative career in the cannabis industry, we strongly suggest you follow these tips. Make sure that you look at all the options that are open to you, and do whatever you can to make yourself a prime candidate.