the next big thing
///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// PHOTO BY TERRE DI CANNABIS FROM UNSPLASH
CANNABIS: THE NEXT CASH CROP & HOW TO GET IN By Ciera Parks & Adrienne Mitchell
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ANNABIS IS AMONG THE fastest-growing job markets in America, but it suffers from a lack of diversity almost by design. Historically, the cannabis industry has been primarily white-owned and founded (Marijuana Biz Daily, 2017). According to Leafly’s 2020 cannabis jobs count, in the last four years, the cannabis industry has directly engaged nearly 250,000 full-time employees. Add indirect roles and the number of full-time workers dependent on the legal cannabis industry nearly doubles. Recent efforts to increase diversity and inclusion within the industry, have presented new opportunities for minorities. Here’s how you can stand out, get noticed and get into this fast-growing industry: 1. Have a winning & relevant Resume: Most cannabis companies are operating in start-up mode and are looking for applicants who can be innovative and agile. Your resume should be tailored to show that you’ve worked in fast-paced, high-growth environments. Demonstrate how you’ve built teams from the ground up and highlight successful projects you’ve led from start to finish that had a positive financial impact on the company. 2. Learn the Lingo: Take time out to research the cannabis industry. Learn the language, so when speaking with professionals in the cannabis space you can present your talents in a way that relates to their business.
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3. Get to know your State’s & Surrounding Area's Stance on Cannabis/Marijuana: The recent elections and the upcoming MORE Act vote are shifting how and where you can find opportunities. While cannabis experience for an HR professional is not required to enter the industry, understanding the industry matters. 4. Where to Find Jobs: Outside of your normal job boards, there are a few great websites catered to cannabis job openings: Vangsters, The Cannabis Job Board and 420 Careers to name a few. Tip: if you are looking to be an HR professional in the cannabis space these job boards are a great place to learn the lingo and see what types of jobs and support cannabis companies need. 5. Seek Guidance from a Mentor or Coach in the Industry: Constant contact with others knowledgeable of the cannabis industry is the best way to have updated information. Cannabis industry updates are not always readily available, so by the time this information reaches you, valuable opportunities may have been missed. Similar to other high growth industries, in the cannabis industry, processes and decisions move quickly, and being on a warm bench is better than a cold search. Be mindful, that even as an industry ally, there will be information that your cannabis connection will not be able to share with you. However, being in close contact and top of mind for a cannabis HR role is made easier by networking into this industry skillfully. Use sites like LinkedIn to find, connect, and engage with professionals in the cannabis space. u
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