There have been some interesting new developments in the cannabis industry over the past month. On August 30, 2023, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) sent a groundbreaking recommendation to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) regarding the rescheduling of marijuana. In this pivot move, the HHS recommends to the DEA changing cannabis to a Schedule 3 drug. 

With more U.S. states legalizing cannabis each year, many people feel like “it’s only a matter of time” before it goes federally legal. As a leading cannabis and hydroponics recruiting agency, M&F Talent pays close attention to the ongoing evolution of cannabis policy in the United States. 

In this blog post, we will delve into the details of the historic recommendation by the HHS and what it could mean for the future of cannabis legalization.

The Current State of Cannabis in the United States

Cannabis has long been classified as a Schedule 1 drug by the DEA. According to the DEA Drug Fact Sheet, “Marijuana is a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act, meaning that it has a high potential for abuse, no currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States, and a lack of accepted safety for use under medical supervision.” 

Obviously, state governments and legislators from around the country do not agree with the DEA’s assessment of cannabis. In fact, millions of people report finding medical relief from cannabis or enjoy using it as a recreational substance. Nonetheless, due to federal law, cannabis laws are a patchwork of regulations in different state markets across the country. 

The HHS Recommends Changing Cannabis to a Schedule 3 Drug

The HHS’s recommendation to the DEA in August 2023 represents a significant shift in the federal government’s stance on cannabis. According to the Bloomberg website, “Reclassification is a step short of legalizing the drug entirely, but it would mark a critical shift away from marijuana’s status as a Schedule I substance, which includes drugs with high risk of abuse, like heroin, LSD and ecstasy. Schedule III substances, such as ketamine, are seen as less dangerous and can be obtained legally with a prescription.” 

The DEA defines Schedule III substances as “drugs with a moderate to low potential for physical and psychological dependence.”

While it remains unclear if the DEA will take the advice of the HHS, the recommendation is still making waves across the cannabis industry. This move has been met with anticipation and excitement by marijuana legalization advocates and business people alike. 

Rescheduling vs. Legalization

It’s important to note that the HHS’s recommendation does not equate to the legalization of cannabis. While a Schedule III classification is certainly a step in the right direction, it does not mean we are all in on a full-scale federal cannabis market. However, if the DEA decides to move cannabis to Schedule II or III, it would likely create more opportunities for research & development and could pave the way for future federal legalization. 

Potential Implications of Changing Cannabis to a Schedule 3 Drug 

From business opportunities to new medical research, there are many implications for rescheduling cannabis to a Schedule III substance. 

Medical Research

One of the most promising benefits of rescheduling cannabis to Schedule III is that it may open the doors for more extensive research into medical applications. Since cannabis is considered Schedule I, it has been very difficult to give the plant the attention it deserves when it comes to medical research. While millions of patients can attest to the benefits of medical cannabis, nothing would legitimize its medical applications like formal approval by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

New medical research would also likely lead to more business opportunities with the creation of the first-ever FDA-approved cannabis drugs. 

Banking and Financial Services

Another significant implication of rescheduling cannabis would be improved access to banking and financial services for businesses in the industry. Since cannabis is federally illegal, most banks and major credit cards are hesitant to work with cannabis businesses for fear of legal consequences. As such, a majority of cannabis companies are forced to operate in a “cash only” model – a fact that is a large inconvenience for businesses and consumers alike. 

Interstate Commerce

Rescheduling could also pave the way for legal marijuana businesses to engage in interstate commerce. As of now, cannabis businesses must operate within state borders to avoid federal prosecution. This fact poses particular issues for multi-state operators (MSOs) having to deal with a patchwork of disparate laws in the different places they conduct business. Not only is it difficult to produce consistent products in such an environment, but keeping up with the compliance laws in so many different markets is a real challenge. 

Criminal Justice Reform

Rescheduling marijuana could also have positive implications for criminal justice reform. Thousands of individuals are currently incarcerated for non-violent cannabis offenses. According to the ACLU website, “marijuana arrests now account for over half of all drug arrests in the United States. Of the 8.2 million marijuana arrests between 2001 and 2010, 88% were for simply having marijuana.” A shift in federal policy could lead to the reconsideration of these cases and potentially result in the release of individuals imprisoned for marijuana-related crimes.

Conclusion

The HHS’s recommendation about changing cannabis to a Schedule 3 drug represents a landmark moment in the evolving landscape of regulation in the United States. While the specific details of the recommendation and its implications are yet to be fully understood, it signals a willingness to reconsider the federal government’s stance on cannabis.

Public opinion on cannabis has shifted significantly over the past decade, with a majority of Americans now supporting its legalization. This shift in public sentiment has influenced policymakers and could play a crucial role in the ongoing push for reform. The journey of legalization is ongoing, and the HHS’s recommendation about changing cannabis to a Schedule 3 drug is just one step on the path toward a more rational and equitable approach to cannabis in the United States.

Questions About Cannabis Jobs? Contact M&F Talent  

As some of the top cannabis industry recruiters, the team at M&F Talent pays close attention to news on changing legislation in the industry. Contact Us for questions about cannabis jobs and more.

In recent years, the cannabis industry has undeniably been on the rise, presenting numerous opportunities for those seeking employment. However, breaking into this burgeoning field isn’t always as straightforward as one might imagine. Despite the industry’s rapid growth, securing gainful employment can be a challenge for many individuals. Here’s a closer look at the current landscape and some essential advice for those aiming to enter the cannabis job market. 

Challenges in the Cannabis Job Market

One of the primary hurdles facing job seekers in the cannabis industry is the prevalence of start-up businesses with limited hiring resources. Additionally, there’s an influx of applicants drawn to cultivation roles, often fueled by romanticized notions of the job. This influx has led to a saturation of unqualified candidates flooding job boards and postings.

Moreover, professionals dissatisfied with traditional career paths, such as those in IT or legal sectors, are increasingly drawn to the allure of the cannabis boom. However, many are hesitant to take a step down to make the transition, even though they don’t have direct cannabis industry experience. While there are many of these applicants in the job pool, many are having a hard time finding opportunities to meet their expectations. 

Navigating Career Transitions

For those serious about transitioning into the cannabis job market, adopting a strategic approach is essential. Here are some key pointers to consider:

Critical Thinking and Adaptability

Reflect on how your existing skills and experiences can be applied to roles within the cannabis sector. Tailor your resume to highlight relevant qualifications and experiences that align with the industry’s needs. This might mean writing a competency-based resume to showcase your value to employers. 

Practicality and Humility

Be prepared to start at an entry-level position to gain valuable experience and establish yourself within the industry. Embrace the opportunity to learn and grow professionally, even if it means initially taking on roles that may seem less glamorous. With a little hard work and diligence, it’s easy to rise through the ranks in a cannabis career. 

Persistence and Networking

Actively market yourself to potential employers by leveraging job boards, attending cannabis conferences, and reaching out to businesses directly. Networking within the industry can often open doors to unexpected opportunities.

Emerging Career Sectors

While cultivation and marketing roles often steal the spotlight, there’s a growing demand for professionals in sales and technology-related positions within the cannabis industry. Here’s why:

Sales Driven Environment

With every business focused on profitability, skilled sales professionals play a crucial role in driving revenue and sustaining growth. Sales positions, though less glamorous, are highly sought after and offer ample opportunities for advancement. If you have the drive and determination, starting with a commissioned-based role is a great way to get a start in the cannabis industry. 

Technology Integration

Many legal states have implemented state-mandated tracking systems for cultivation centers and dispensaries. This creates a demand for tech-savvy individuals capable of implementing and managing these systems, particularly in regions like California where such technology is being scaled up for new compliance regulations. Moreover, more software-as-a-service (SaaS) providers are entering the market every year for everything from grow room climate control to monitoring sales performance and consumer behavior. 

Summary 

In conclusion, while the cannabis job market presents its challenges, it also offers exciting prospects for those willing to adapt and seize opportunities. By approaching career transitions with critical thinking, practicality, and persistence, individuals can position themselves for success in this dynamic and evolving industry.

Looking for a Cannabis Career? Talk to M&F Talent!

Mac & Fulton Talent Partners has been doing recruitment in the cannabis industry since its earliest days. We have a wide network of plant-touching and ancillary companies that trust us with their most critical hiring decisions. Contact us today to learn more!

Every year, M&F Talent sees more technology jobs in cannabis. Unlike more “traditional” facets of cannabis work – related to plant-touching tasks like growing and processing – tech jobs are a new phenomenon. The legitimization of the industry has directed an innovation boom where tech companies now feel comfortable allocating resources to the cannabis business.

As the cannabis industry is quickly morphing into a mainstream affair, it is bringing with it countless startup companies which provide technological solutions for businesses. As such, business owners incorporate innovative software into their operations that seeks to alleviate logistical problems in cultivation, processing, retail, and beyond.

If you are curious about technology jobs in cannabis, there are a good deal of options. As the leading technical recruiting agency in the industry, M&F Talent has worked with a number of cannabis tech companies. Here are some interesting verticals to explore for technology jobs in cannabis:

• Big data solutions for cultivation, processing, and retail
• Point of sale (POS) systems for cannabis dispensaries
• Environmental controllers for grow rooms
• Garden management software for indoor grows
• Cannabis specific customer relationship management (CRM) platforms
• seed-to-sale tracking software
• SAAS providers specifically for cannabis
• Horticultural lighting technology

From cultivation operations to retail dispensaries, there are some great career opportunities in the cannabis technology vertical. At M&F Talent, we recommend researching these different categories to find what is the best for you.

The Benefits of Working with Cannabis Ancillaries

For those individuals interested in entering the cannabis industry, technology companies offer some attractive career choices. To this end, tech companies fall nicely into the cannabis ancillary business category. As such, as they don’t directly work with cannabis, these businesses can operate across State borders. This simple fact offers them much more opportunity for expansion than seen with plant-touching businesses. Lucky for cannabis tech companies, they have far fewer logistical obstructions in conducting business.

Due to the fact that cannabis tech companies can operate beyond state borders, they have near-endless growth potential. With unlimited geographical bandwidth, cannabis tech companies can develop large corporate structures unseen with many plant-touching businesses. This growth leads to executive-level career opportunities as well as the development of large sales and marketing teams.

Transferable Skill-Sets

Another attractive point about technology jobs in cannabis has to do with translatable skill-sets. Because the cannabis tech segment largely requires skill-sets developed in traditional forms of education, it provides an easy professional transition into the industry. To illustrate, many professional cannabis growers developed their skills underground. As such, they have a hard time showing their experience on a resume. Conversely, Information Technology professionals gain their knowledge at universities and as well as on the job. Therefore, there is ample “cross-over” for tech professionals to use their established knowledge base with a career in the cannabis industry.

If you are an IT professional looking for a job in the cannabis industry, M&F Talent recommends looking at transferable skill sets that are in demand by cannabis tech companies. As the cannabis industry continues to integrate technology into its very fabric, there will only be a rising need to fill technology jobs in cannabis.

Contact Mac & Fulton about Technology Jobs in Cannabis

If you would like to discuss cannabis jobs in more detail, or learn more about our cannabis recruiting operations, please reach out at info@mandfconsultants.com.

At M&F Talent, we are wishing health and safety for our network during these difficult times. While many people have had their careers disrupted, or perhaps are working from home, it’s important to stay positive and keep motivated. While business has slowed a bit, our recruiting team is still working hard to find people jobs. That being said, now is a great time to assess COVID-19, cannabis, and horticulture jobs.

The COVID-19 pandemic has challenged our personal and business lives in ways unthinkable just a few short months ago. Over the last weeks, the pandemic has made it all-to-clear that we simply cannot control mother nature. Even more, it is easy to feel helpless with such turmoil happening in the business world. However, while it’s evident that we can’t control the forces that “got us here,” we can still influence our lives through positive action.

As you spend time at home to await the passage of this crisis, it’s a great time to brainstorm ways to improve your career standing when things return to normal. For starters, you could finally take the time to revise your resume up to today’s standards. Similarly, cleaning up your LinkedIn profile or getting professional headshots are great ways to prep for a future career change. Finally, you take the time to research that dream job or industry that you have always thought about. In the end, the COVID-19 pandemic gives us the chance to better ourselves by affording us extra time at home. Why not spend this time being productive?

If you put some extra effort into improving your situation, you will be ready to enter the next chapter of your life when the world gets back to normal. For those looking to work in cannabis or controlled environment agriculture (CEA), perhaps there will be better opportunity than seen before the COVID-19 outbreak.

Market Resiliency, COVID-19, Cannabis, and Horticulture

The cannabis and horticulture industries are well-positioned to weather the COVID-19 storm. This notion applies to the business climate during market shutdowns as well as a potential recession. To this end, as long as people consume cannabis and fresh produce, businesses that provide these products should fare better than most – this notion includes plant-touching companies and ancillaries. Therefore, the cannabis and horticulture markets currently offer more career stability than seen in most other industries. Here are a few reasons why:

Essential Businesses

As of early May, 24 U.S. States have deemed cannabis businesses “essential” during the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, within markets such as California and Colorado, cannabis industry workers remain employed while many others not. Beyond job security, this notion is exciting because it reflects the changing view of cannabis in the public eye. As such, many people feel that the “essential business” classification for cannabis companies is a harbinger for things to come for federal legalization.

Cannabis as a Stress Reliever

The COVID-19 pandemic has left many of us concerned about the prospect of another recession as seen in 2008, or worse. However, it is worth noting that industries similar to cannabis in fact do well during economic recessions. To illustrate, the wine and beer industry remained healthy during the entire 2008 recession – namely because people look to alcohol as a stress reliever. Needless to say, cannabis has a similar relaxing effect for many consumers, and it is used for stress relief during difficult times. Even more, many people now prefer cannabis to alcohol as a healthier stress relief option.

Everyone Needs to Eat

Looking to the horticulture / CEA industry, you have to appreciate the fact that everyone needs to eat food. Therefore, this basic fact is an indicator of the present and future health of modern crop production. Even more, the COVID 19 pandemic has exposed some serious flaws in the global food supply chain that can only be rectified through more localized production. As such, during pandemic or recession, the CEA space is a good place to be professionally.

The Cannabis Industry “Darwin Effect”

It’s no secret that the cannabis industry had a difficult time over the last 6 months. For starters, news in Q4 of 2019 highlighted employee layoffs, business downsizing, the exit of high-powered CEOs. Secondly, 2020 continued this trend of downsizing with the added complexity of the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, it’s worth noting that this market activity is indicative of an industry beginning to mature. Even more, as the current economy forces cannabis businesses to operate “lean and mean,” it will help to eliminate those companies not fit to survive in the long run. In the end, this “Darwin effect” will help create a more stable job market in the future.

Summary

It can’t be denied that COVID-19, cannabis, and horticulture are exposing some very interesting trends in the current business climate. While many other industries like tourism and hospitality are experiencing some real challenges with the pandemic, it seems that cannabis and horticulture are well placed to weather the storm. Even more, it’s entirely possible for these markets to come out stronger than they were prior to the pandemic.

If you would like to learn more about M&F Talent, as well as our business operations, please contact us at info@mandfconsultants.com.

Embodying what it means to be a cannabis professional is a key component in establishing and preserving the quality of the cannabis industry. In this case, the word “professional” extends far beyond just simply working in the industry and getting paid. 

As any other industry requires, maintaining a certain level of morale, intelligence, and respect is seen as a crucial part of success. The need for those qualities in a cannabis professional is especially imperative. Cannabis professionals must prove themselves as legitimate, even outside of the workplace. Our right to be here is still being threatened, and those in the industry answer unnecessary questions and skepticism. Our industry is new and the talent pool slim, adding additional barriers for those wanting to get into the cannabis industry. Cannabis was also deemed federally illegal under the Marijuana Tax Act in 1937, effectively manipulating generations of people’s perception of cannabis, and therefore, the industry itself. The act was signed into law by the president at the time, Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Cannabis Professionals Can Change the Negative Perception

The 1937 Marijuana Tax Act was later ruled as unconstitutional, however, cannabis’s federally illegal status remains. In the 1970s the Controlled Substances Act was put into effect, designed to rank individual substances by how dangerous they are. Cannabis was placed as a Schedule I substance, meaning it is harmful to those who use it and provides no medicinal value. Cannabis remains a Schedule I substance to this day and is classified by the federal government to be more dangerous than cocaine or fentanyl. Cannabis has since been made legal in many states, but this anti-cannabis message put out by the federal government has been ingrained into society’s brains for decades. Cannabis professionals in the legal industry have a unique opportunity to shift that mindset with the “gray” market we are currently in. 

Harry Anslinger and Friends Demonize Cannabis

Just seven years before the 1937 Marijuana Tax Act was put into play, 38-year-old Harry J. Anslinger became the first commissioner of the Treasury’s Federal Bureau of Narcotics. Anslinger was a major driving force behind the launch of the prohibition, as well as a prominent and outspoken critic of cannabis use, and directly attacking those who use it. Anslinger is now most known for his racist association of cannabis and minorities and promoting the idea that cannabis will cause one to be violent and filled with rage. “Marijuana is the most violence-causing drug in the history of mankind.​” Anslinger famously said. Many think of Anslinger when they think of prohibition, but he was not the only one committed to outlawing the plant. There have been a lot of political and prominent figures who came after him and reinforced his message. Aslinger’s and the comments of those who followed stuck in the minds of many Americans. It caused those who heard his propaganda to teach their children the same thing, creating generations of people who believe cannabis to be dangerous. This created mindset has proved to be detrimental to cannabis professionals, even today.

Many of the cannabis professionals involved in our industry have broken through that belief system and view cannabis as a valuable resource. It is our responsibility to extend those epiphanies, respect the work of those cannabis professionals and pioneers who came before us, and fight the stigma with our character.

Fight the Stigma as a Cannabis Industry Professional

So, what are some ways for those of us in the industry to combat the “killer cannabis” mindset? We have come up with what we believe to be two important and actionable moves in order to maintain professionalism in the industry. 

1) Get and stay educated

Education is key in the cannabis space. Are you prepared to answer even the toughest of questions, and can you source reputable resources for them to explore? The issue of the cannabis industry’s legitimacy needs to be addressed with facts in order to generate a mindset change. 

Quick facts to know: 

• According to Leafly’s job report, the cannabis industry is the fastest-growing industry in the United States.
• There has been an array of medical conditions that have shown great potential in responding to cannabis treatment. Just be careful you don’t make any health claims.
• The cannabis industry brings a great opportunity for our economy to flourish.

2) Know your reasons for using cannabis, and stick to them.

The idea of sitting around smoking cannabis all day is off-putting for many, especially if a cannabis professional says that is how they spend their time. When someone asks you why you use cannabis, be prepared to give them a compelling answer. “Because I like to get high” is not an answer that will provoke thought. Explaining that cannabis relieves your back pain after your car accident, and opiates have a high rate of addiction, can lead to important questions and curiosity.

Above all, respecting the plant and treating our industry with care will naturally translate to a professional demeanor.

Leafly recently released its annual cannabis industry job report available for anyone who is interested to download and read. Leafly’s report has been created for the last four years in an attempt to gauge just how many jobs the cannabis industry is bringing to the economy. Federal and state job economists of the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics have not been including state-legal cannabis businesses in their reports because of federal prohibition. Those with jobs in the cannabis industry are recognized as illegal occupations, even though they operate legally under their state’s laws. When Leafly started their research, the North American Industry Classification System didn’t even have a code for cannabis jobs. They have since created one, but according to Leafly, “Retail marijuana stores are lumped in with art supply stores, auction houses, and hot tub stores. Cannabis growers have the same job code as hay farmers and agave growers.” Therefore, there isn’t a true gauge on the industry alone. 

According to the report, 243,700 full-time jobs were held by the state-legal cannabis industry as of January 2020, effectively making the cannabis industry the fastest growing industry in North America. Roughly 33,000 of those jobs have been added in the past 12 months, creating a 15% increase from the previous 12 months. The growth becomes truly evident when comparing it with other occupations. The job report says that Massachusetts employs more cannabis industry workers than it does cosmetologists and hairstylists. Nevada has as many cannabis workers as they do bartenders, and Illinois maintains twice the amount of legal cannabis industry jobs than they do meat packing positions. 

Cannabis Industry Jobs Bring Strong Growth Rates

The job report included growth projection for different occupations compared to the cannabis industry from 2018-2028. This projection boasts a 250% total growth for the cannabis industry over that 10 year period. The other industries included are those considered to be the fastest-growing occupations in the United States. Wind turbine service techs and solar photovoltaic installers come the closest to the cannabis industry’s robust projected growth, but ultimately don’t even come close to its 250% projection with a growth rate of 57% and 63%, respectively. Other occupations like nurse practitioners, statisticians, information security analysts, occupational therapists, and personal care and home health aids have a projection of anywhere between 28%-37%. 

The job report was able to breakdown the top 10 states that are supporting the most jobs in the cannabis industry. Not surprisingly, California holds the top spot, employing 39,804 jobs across the state at the time this data was collected. Colorado is not far behind, positioning itself as the number two spot with 34,705 jobs. Washington at number three holds 23,756, and Oregon’s 18,274 jobs place the state in 4th, with Florida, Arizona, Nevada, Massachusetts, Oklahoma, and Illinois holding the last six spots. 

2020 Brings Strong Points

The job report notes “hot spots” to watch out for in 2020, or areas of strong growth. According to the report, we can expect to see the newly-legalized state of Missouri benefit from triple-digit growth as 192 dispensaries are set to open their door this year and employ thousands of people. 

Though the cannabis industry often faces additional regulatory processes, there is an upside when it comes to the logistics of the industry itself. Leafly’s job report says “Cannabis offers a unique opportunity to count employment specifically because of the highly regulated nature of the industry. State regulators don’t track sales of roses or alfalfa the way they track cannabis, which is often scrutinized down to the last gram and the last cent. Every legal cannabis state requires some form of mandatory reporting, whether it’s license-tracked monthly sales, patient counts, or cannabis worker permits. The statistics are often imperfect, but they do exist.”

To get more info on cannabis jobs, please check out the M&F Talent jobs page, or contact us at info@mandfconsultants.com.

The cannabis industry is always in flux. In turn, businesses must consistently revise their approaches to hiring and retaining cannabis industry employees.

To illustrate, 2020 has presented its fair share of challenges for both expansion and hiring in the cannabis business. As new markets like Michigan and Illinois see astonishing growth figures, other more established markets like Colorado and California are struggling to show profits. Similarly, for the first time in history, publically traded cannabis companies in the U.S. and Canada are being held accountable for profitability. Either way – if a cannabis company is experiencing rapid growth, or downsizing for profitability – it’s more important than ever that they have the proper employee team in place.

As of January 1, 2020, 33 U.S. states have legalized cannabis in some form. Moreover, it is said that 16 states will have cannabis legalization on their 2020 ballots. So, with all the growth in the cannabis industry, and more companies launching within the industry, how do employers remain competitive in hiring and retaining employees? Also, how do they keep employees around during difficult times?

Be Proactive in Searching & Sourcing

Not to be confused with recruiting, talent sourcing is the process of identifying, researching, and networking with probable job candidates. The hope is, these “passive candidates” will one day become applicants when the time is right. Sourcing is important because it improves the quality of hiring by way of an extended vetting process. Also, it’s a great way to keep track of candidates that are not necessarily marketing themselves online.

It’s advisable that large companies continue to source potential candidates throughout the year so they can reach out when there is a hiring need.

Sourcing Outside of the Cannabis Industry

The cannabis industry represents a brand new line of work. To this end, recreational cannabis markets were only realized 5 short years ago. Therefore, the demand for cannabis industry talent sometimes outweighs available applicants. If this is the case, M&F Talent recommends that businesses source candidates from outside the cannabis industry.

Every week, M&F Talent sees hundreds of qualified applicants who are interested in working with cannabis. Many of these people are passionate, motivated, and experienced. Even more, many of them are comfortable working with cannabis industry startups. Don’t let unrealistic requirements for cannabis professionals keep you from hiring the right person.

The Interview Process

With decades of experience in recruiting, the team at M&F Talent has come to realize that the interview process is a delicate time. As such, if you are interested in attracting and hiring the top talent in the cannabis industry, be sure that you are timely and attentive with your communications. To this end, there is no better way to have a candidate “go cold” than by not following through on scheduled calls and meetings.

Throughout the interview process, it’s vital that candidates know they are a priority for your company. Because, how they are treated during the interview phase is often a reflection of the general work environment. As such, a key to hiring the best applicants is by making sure their needs are met throughout the entire interview process.

Salary & Retaining Cannabis Industry Employees

The cannabis business presents some extremely unique challenges when it comes to employee compensation. Namely because, most cannabis companies can’t pay salaries that are competitive with more “traditional” industries. Therefore, many industry experts see a direct correlation between high turnover rates and lackluster employee wages.

If you are interested in retaining cannabis industry employees, it’s advisable that you find creative ways to compensate for lower salaries. There are a variety of options for this process. For starters, higher-level employees are oftentimes offered equity in the business as part of their wages. Secondly, entry-level employees and mid-level management teams are often incentivized by perks like discounted products, free meals, and endless networking.

Partnering with a Recruiting Firm 

Because recruiting firms like M&F Talent specialize in sourcing, vetting, and interviewing candidates, we can be a great resource for busy hiring parties. Even more, staffing agencies generally find candidates quickly because we specialize in the process. The hope is, outsourcing a 3rd party cannabis recruiter will help the overall productivity and efficiency of your HR department.

If you would like to learn more about retaining cannabis industry employees, please contact us at info@mandfconsultants.com.

Bernie Sanders recently tweeted his opinion on the cannabis industry unionizing. The tweet was encouraging employees at Cresco Labs in Joliet, Illinois to vote yes to the union, and it ended with him promising to “lead the fight to double union membership in this country” if he wins the presidency.

What are some of the potential outcomes waiting to unfold if the cannabis industry unionized?

The Cannabis Industry Unionizing: The Pros

One of the most influential benefits of establishing a union is the employee’s right to demand more favorable working conditions. Unions allow for collective bargaining, aka union workers banding together to fight for the change they want to see.

Many people in the industry have a passion and knowledge of cannabis. The cannabis industry unionizing can make room for knowledgeable employee input, likely improving business as a whole.

Allowing employees to have a say in their workplace environment increases their happiness at work. According to Forbes, one study found that when employees are happy, they are 20% more productive than unhappy employees. Greater employee productivity naturally leads to better results for the company. This is great news for cannabis businesses, considering their right to even be a business is still being questioned by some. Successful companies that create happy and repeating customers are hard to refute. Top that off with satisfied employees, and the business is looking pretty darn good.

The cannabis industry unionizing also leads to better wages. According to an article on CNN, the average wage for a union worker in 2014 was $970/week, compared to $763/week for non-union workers. While the cannabis industry does employ some high paying jobs, according to Glassdoor, the average budtender makes $13 an hour. At 40 hours a week, that is only $520 a week before taxes. Securing better wages through the cannabis industry’s unionization is a positive change for those workers and their families.

The Cannabis Industry Unionizing: The Cons

There are, of course, two sides to every story. Should the cannabis industry unionize, union members are responsible for paying dues to their union. Occasionally, union dues are so high they can offset the cost of higher wages. Union dues are set in place to help pay salaries and for the general costs associated with conducting a union. According to Bankrate, union members sometimes complain about how much they pay in dues, as well as how the money is allocated and spent.

Seniority is strong in union workplaces. In other words, an employee who has been at a job longer than a newer hire has more preference in terms of their wages, vacation days, promotions, and basic job security. This may seem like a plus, and in some cases it is. But, if an employee with more experience joins the team, they aren’t able to move up as quickly as someone who has simply just worked there longer.

In the cannabis industry specifically, this can create problems. Sometimes experienced workers in the industry move to newly legalized states after companies are up and running in order to put their experience to use elsewhere. In other words, those with beneficial experience may be forced to stay in a lower position due to seniority, possibly compromising the potential quality of the company.

Weighing the Pros and Cons

As the cannabis industry develops, weighing the pros and cons of cannabis industry unionization is important to preserving the integrity of the industry. According to Leafly’s most recent annual cannabis job report, the legal cannabis industry added roughly 33,000 new jobs nationwide last year, making it the fastest-growing industry in the United States. Bernie Sanders and many others are for cannabis industry unionization. However, with industry growth, this explosive, major changes must be carefully calculated in order to position the employees’ best interests first.

If you have additional questions about working in the cannabis industry, including unionization, feel free to contact us at info@mandfconsultants.com.

As the cannabis business continues to transition from an underground affair to a mainstream industry, it brings its fair share of challenges. Among the most complex changes being undergone in the cannabis industry today have to do with employment. Primarily because, the notion of a legal “cannabis professional” is entirely novel. Therefore, as the newly legal cannabis industry struggles to find its identity, job searchers and business owners alike also struggle to understand the parameters of successful working relationships. Even more, those hopeful job searchers looking to land their cannabis dream job are faced with a plethora of unforeseen obstacles.

The cannabis industry is creating new jobs at a previously unfathomable rate. For example, studies show than an astounding 160,000 people were employed in the U.S. cannabis industry in 2018. More amazingly, Zip Recruiter CEO Ian Siegel reports that their popular job board has seen a 445% increase in cannabis-related job postings “year after year.” To put this job creation in perspective, Zip Recruiter shows that healthcare-related jobs rose over 70 % in 2017, while tech-related jobs saw an increase of 254% in the same year. Yet, neither of these fields come anywhere near cannabis.

Challenges Faced by Cannabis Job Searchers

While it is evident that cannabis has become a major catalyst for new job creation, applicants today are facing serious hurdles in finding stable employment. A case in point, the job turnover rate in hotbeds of the industry like Denver, CO is quite alarming. In fact, recruiters and HR departments rarely see cannabis professionals with over two years of employment at the same company. This systemic issue with short work durations is comparable to only the service industry (restaurants and bars) in its pervasiveness.

The cannabis industry is also plagued by misguided business owners who are quick to make false promises to attract top talent – only to not follow through in the end. In some cases, employees don’t receive a promised promotion. Even worse, some team members don’t get paid at all. Forewarnings aside, for those hopeful applicants hoping to cash in on the new cannabis boom, here are some words of wisdom in finding your cannabis dream job:

Study the Cannabis Industry

You don’t have to be a cannabis business analyst to know that this industry is both volatile and confusing. As such, if you are interested in making a career out of marijuana, be sure to study the industry with scrupulous dedication. To this end, understanding local laws and business practices are some of the most direct ways to impress a hiring party in the cannabis space.

As novel cannabis markets are created with legalization, new compliance regulations are born overnight. With this flux of opportunity and expansion comes a confusing path of regulatory “hurdles” that must be navigated. As most experienced cannabis professionals have seen, these new markets also become rapidly flooded with self-proclaimed “master growers” and “cannabis consultants.” These people often grossly overexaggerate their abilities. Please, don’t follow these examples if you are serious about finding a stable career in cannabis. In fact, there is no more surefire way to turn off a cannabis hiring manager than acting like you know something you don’t.

If you are interested in finding your dream career in cannabis, a great starting point is researching the market niche which you are looking to occupy. Be sure to study up on your professional background as compared to new cannabis jobs. In like fashion, research job postings to understand how the skillsets needed in new cannabis jobs are related to your background. By keeping an eye on sources like Indeed, Zip Recruiter, and LinkedIn, you can learn about cannabis careers and align your background with those that are the closest fit.

Knowing your transferable competencies and explaining their application in cannabis is a great way to wow interviewers at your dream company. By using this approach, you are providing an honest appraisal of your background as well as showing that you have been researching the cannabis space as a serious job searcher.

Be Realistic About Your Cannabis Dream Job 

When looking at the cannabis industry from the outside, applicants are often drawn to impractical career paths that are not related to their professional background. For instance, cannabis cultivation jobs receive unparalleled attention with both job boards and social media. Largely because, cultivation careers are highly romanticized by both hobbyist growers and cannabis connoisseurs. Yet, just because you have grown exceptional flowers in your closet or can name the genetic lineage of “NY Diesel” doesn’t mean you have the skills necessary to work in a commercial cultivation job.

For those individuals looking to find a dream job in cannabis, the best starting point is an understanding of realistic opportunities. Often, these opportunities are related to skillsets developed in one’s past profession – not the fact that they enjoy growing or consuming cannabis. Therefore, if you want to find your dream job in the industry, you might have to start with something less romantic like Information Technology, Facilities Management, Human Resources, or Compliance.

If you have the drive to find your cannabis dream job, you might have to settle with a less attractive position as you build your resume. It goes without saying that “dream jobs” don’t come easily and you will likely have to make some sacrifices to realize this goal. Ideally, in time, your career can blossom into something that is challenging, rewarding, and fulfilling.

Conclusion

The cannabis industry is brand new and those working in this exciting field are still learning about it on a daily basis. Yet, as the cannabis industry continues to grow and mature, we will continue to witness a serious imbalance between the amount of new jobs created and those individuals with applicable experience. As this trend continues to gain momentum, hiring parties are also increasingly motivated to hire people from outside the industry. Therefore, it is vital that serious cannabis job searchers “go the extra mile” in making themselves stand out in a crowd of applicants.

We have also seen an influx of high-powered executives transitioning into the cannabis space, which is further evidence of the maturation of the industry. This trend is good news for job searchers. Because, these executives bring hard-won experience to the industry, which will hopefully help solve the systemic issues with stability and organization that currently plague the cannabis space. Therefore, to revisit the notion of studying the industry, a big part of finding your dream job in cannabis is researching those companies who are showing signs of both growth and stability. In like fashion, a primary indicator of job stability is a leadership team that is grounded in the very real foundations of education, hard work, organization, and patience.

Cannabis Recruiting at M&F Talent

Are you looking to jump-start your cannabis career? The cannabis recruiters at M&F Talent would love to discuss your qualifications and career aspirations.

Contact us today to get started!

If there is any term that defines the modern cannabis industry, the term would undoubtedly be “change.” This notion applies to the internal workings of business and policy, as well as the perceived image of cannabis in the public eye. Looking at the medical field, legitimate scientific studies into the benefits of cannabis are still in their infancy.

This notion, coupled with drug war rhetoric that is still ingrained in the minds of many Americans, has created a confusing situation on how employers should treat medical cannabis patients. Moreover, as a medical marijuana patient, it can be tough to discuss medical cannabis with your employer. As leading cannabis recruiters, the team at M&F Talent recognizes the precarious nature that medical patients face in the workplace. 

If you are a medical patient and feel inclined to discuss medical cannabis with your employer, there are a few steps that can be taken to ensure the best possible reaction. 

Know the Current State of the Cannabis Industry

As widespread cannabis legalization has occurred across the U.S. and Canada, we have seen outdated drug war ideologies precariously juxtaposed against the dramatically shifting tides of business interest in the industry. Resultantly, even industry “insiders” are confused about the current state of the marketplace, as it is marked with contradictory motives, ideologies, and plans.

Among the tides of changing legislation, evolving viewpoints, and alarming contradictions, it is easy to forget that the legal cannabis industry was founded on the very real medical needs of marijuana patients. Unfortunately, these individuals are often left to fend for themselves in an environment where inconsistent “scientific studies” are touted as “fact” on a near-daily basis. 

For many medical cannabis patients, the prospect of failing a drug test and losing a job is a genuine threat. With such a confusing patchwork of regulations across the industry, it can be tough for patients to even know what their rights are under state law. 

Do Your Homework on Medical Cannabis

Because the industry is changing so rapidly, it can be quite confusing to understand the legality of cannabis or CBD in a specific marketplace at any given time. That said, if you decide to discuss medical cannabis with your employer, be sure that you understand the legal standing of cannabis where you live.

Since different U.S. States have different qualifying conditions for medical cannabis, study up on your specific locale. For example, certain states recognize psychological disorders like anxiety and PTSD as qualifying conditions, while others only deal with serious medical conditions like HIV and cancer. By understanding exactly what types of patients are protected in your state, you will have much more confidence when it comes time to discuss medical cannabis with your employer. 

Before you discuss medical cannabis with your employer, it’s also a good idea to learn about drug policies at your place of work. While unfortunate, it could be the case they don’t recognize the validity of medical cannabis and you could be setting yourself up for a bad situation. 

Present a Legitimate Medical Need

If you decide to disclose your medical cannabis usage to your employer, be sure that you present a specific medical need. To this end, there is perhaps no surer way to raise suspicion with your employer than admitting you use cannabis without linking it to a qualifying medical condition in your state. Before you discuss medical cannabis with your employer, prepare to explain exactly what your dosage looks like and how it relates to your medical condition. 

Serious medical cannabis patients should look at cannabis as an alternative to invasive prescription medications – not as another avenue for recreational drug use. In the end, nothing will raise suspicions with an employer as much as someone who attempts to abuse this new system and perpetuate bad stereotypes about cannabis usage. 

Be Prepared to Debate the Medical Cannabis Topic

Whether you are new on the job or have worked there for 10 years, be prepared to discuss the medical marijuana issue. While public opinion is doubtlessly swaying in favor of medical cannabis, drug war ideologies are still deeply ingrained in the minds of mainstream America. As such, if you would like to discuss medical cannabis use with your employer, please bring factual information to the table that can be the basis for an objective dialogue. In the end, a well-thought-out argument could convince even the most conservative employer to look beyond stigmas and give you the benefit of the doubt. 

While cannabis legalization has made incredible progress over the past 10 years, it is still federally illegal in the United States. Moreover, the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) continues to purport that cannabis is a “Schedule I drug,” meaning it has “no accepted medical use” and has a “high potential for abuse.” To this end, as long as our medical institutions receive instruction from such government agencies as the FDA, USDA, and DEA, stigmas surrounding medical cannabis will be extremely difficult to break. 

Look for a New Job if Needs Be

A final word of caution for those medical cannabis patients there. if you happen to work in a dangerous job that requires the use of heavy machinery, you should look for a new career if you must medicate throughout the day. 

Cannabis can impair cognitive functions crucial for safe machine operation, including reaction time, coordination, and judgment. This impairment increases the risk of accidents, potentially causing serious injuries or fatalities to the operator and others nearby. If you have a serious condition that requires the regular consumption of medical cannabis, working with heavy machinery simply is not a good idea. 

Summary: Should You Discuss Medical Cannabis with Your Employer?

The cannabis industry is changing faster than most can perceive, and this volatility is creating confusion and frustration for both employers and employees. At the base of this confusion exist vast discrepancies in what different parties consider “facts.” To illustrate, the industry is continuously inundated with claims about cannabis that aren’t necessarily backed by real scientific research – this notion applies to both sides of the legalization debate.

Looking to the future, we can only hope that as the industry grows more sophisticated, better standards on things like testing, labeling, and dosing will make the employer-and-employee relationship more functional. Yet, these evolutions are still dependent on acceptance by the federal government, as this acknowledgment is the most direct way to control and professionalize the industry, and, in turn, convince skeptical employers that cannabis is real medicine.

Interested in a Cannabis Job? Contact M&F Talent!  

As one of the top recruiting services in the cannabis industry, M&F Talent has watched public sentiment in the industry change over the years. While great strides have been made for mainstream acceptance, many medical cannabis patients face extremely challenging situations at work

Contact us if you’re interested in finding a job in the Cannabis industry or hiring top talent.