This week’s Careers Issue looks at some of the issues facing job seekers and hiring managers. We also asked WeedWeek Council Members for career advice.
- Jesse Staniforth finds cannabis employers face a talent shortage.
- Donnell Alexander looks into the career paths in cannabis security and who’s a good fit for them.
- And speaking of job-seekers, on the podcast episode dropping today, we’ve got an exclusive interview with former Canopy Growth CEO Bruce Linton. Look for it after 4 p.m. pacific.
WeedWeek Council is a new initiative to build a community of industry leaders, and share their insights with WeedWeek’s audience.
What do you look for in new hires?
I’m mostly looking for drive, ambition, entrepreneurship and the ability to improvise and adjust. This is a swiftly moving space with lots of hurdles and shifting regulations. It is definitely not a 9-5 industry, and flexibility is key. I also look for someone who is hungry to learn and not afraid to make (and admit) mistakes. We are all learning as the landscape changes.”
Jennifer Price, VP Communications, Mediajel
What are the most sought after skills right now?
“For C-Suite positions, an ability to raise capital appears to be a large priority for both private and public companies.”
Colin Earl, CEO, Sisu Consulting
“The number one skill we’re looking for is problem-solving.”
James Eichner, CSO, Sana Packaging
What’s your advice for job seekers?
Read up on as much as you can before an interview. Learn what’s happening in your state and the current trends within the industry so you can speak intelligently about them.
Beth Graham, Principal, Reputation Cannabis
Do your due diligence on the employer. Make sure the company is adequately capitalized, talk to current and former employees to understand the culture and challenges, know who is invested in the company and understand the company’s long term strategic goals.
George Jage, President, MJLink
Anything else?
“Job seekers should make sure that they’re going to work for a LICENSED ENTITY both at the local and state level. Unpaid internships, paying you in weed, asking you to volunteer for a period of time, are all indications that you are about to accept employment at an unlicensed business.”
Anonymous
“Understand this industry is not a vacation. you will likely work harder here, in this industry, than any job prior. the cannabis industry is an extreme sport.”
Kenny Morrison, CEO, Plant Parenthood
