The cannabis trade is one of the fastest-growing industries in the US. Americans purchased $18.3 billion in cannabis products, a 71% increase over the prior year. However, hiring in this area still lags, and it’s one of the more competitive job markets. Those who are anxious for a position in a dispensary can do a few things to increase their odds of getting hired.
1. Become knowledgeable about cannabis products.
Learn about the different strains that are available and what flavors and experiences they offer. Be able to talk intelligently about hybrids, terpenes, and THC content. You can learn all of this and more by reading cannabis industry websites and newsletters. The more you know, the better a hire you’ll be.
2. Create a killer resume.
Your resume and cover letter make up your first impression. Construct yours so that it highlights the skills and experience that would make you a great budtender. No experience in the cannabis field? Consider a skill-based resume that highlights past customer service positions and education about cannabis.
Mirror the language used in the job ad. For instance, if they say they want someone who can establish rapport with customers, use that phrase when describing your skills. A resume isn’t just a record of your job history. It’s an important personal marketing tool. Customize yours for every job opening to increase your chances of landing the gig.
3. Highlight your customer service and sales skills.
Being able to provide a great experience to customers is a key to being a successful budtender. In your cover letter or in your interview, talk about what you consider a great visit to a cannabis dispensary and how you can make it happen for your customers.
Before your interview, think of a story you can share about a time you helped a customer make a decision. Or, describe a time that you used sales skills to increase company revenue. A former server, for instance, can describe how they convinced restaurant guests to stay for dessert or add a bottle of wine to a special meal.
4. Get familiar with the dispensaries in your area.
The more customized your approach, the more likely you are to win the job. If you live in the Oakland area, visit several Oakland dispensaries for research. Learn about the offerings and the look and feel of each. This gives you the tools you need to show that you are a cultural match for the shop.
5. Set yourself up for a lateral move.
If the position you want isn’t open or if it’s one that requires experience, don’t give up hope. Instead, change your strategy. Look for other job openings in the cannabis field. It doesn’t matter if it’s cleaning and maintenance, as long as you learn on the job and make an excellent impression. Once you are in, you are in a position to hear about new openings first. You can build up your resume and your knowledge to make you a better fit for the role that is your ultimate goal.
6. Use your networks.
Far more jobs are filled by word of mouth than by online job ads. Talk to the people who you know both personally and professionally. You may know someone who has a lead for a shop that is looking for new personnel.
7. Thank your interviewer.
If you get as far as an interview, make a good impression during and after by being friendly, open, and establishing good rapport. After your interview, take a few minutes to pen a hand-written thank you note for sharing their time with you. This used to be common job hunt etiquette, but has largely fallen out of favor. By making this unusual move, you can make yourself stick out from the crowd.
8. Emphasize your soft skills.
Most dispensaries aren’t just looking for someone to run a register. They want someone who is warm and approachable. Being able to put first-time visitors at ease is a soft skill that is vital for a successful dispensary worker. You should also be able to show that you are a good multitasker who can switch easily from task to task.
If you are passionate about cannabis and want to be part of this industry, that enthusiasm should come out in your resume, your cover letter and your interview. Take the time to hone your pitch to show your local dispensary that you are an excellent fit.
