6 Lessons for my younger cannabis industry self

“Ah, but I was so much older then, I’m younger than that now” My Back Pages, The Byrds

The above stanza (originally written by Bob Dylan) describes a process of self-discovery that comes from seeing fresh perspectives and learning.   This verse also describes the maturation that many (not all) experience when they transition from a raw and idealistic lover of the plant and community to a more productive and sensible cannabis professional.
  
I am regularly asked by young cannabis employees for advice on succeeding in our fascinating but unstable industry.  Here goes:

1) Practice Humility

You may know weed and even aspects of the industry but you likely don’t know much about business or people, let alone life.  Proactively suspend your assumptions, narrow thinking and personal tastes and open yourself up to different viewpoints;

2) Be Professional

Societal norms still matter.  Many of your co-workers might be very chill or lax with standards but odds are the majority of the senior people you will deal with subscribe to old fashion professional virtues. Behaviours like being punctual, respectful and discrete will enable you to stand out from your peers;

3) Embrace a learning mindset

Education doesn’t end at graduation.  Cannabis is a very challenging industry; no one has all the answers.  In our sector, your real education begins on the job. Be curious. Pay attention.  Reflect on both the good and bad experiences, not to mention your managers.  Capture the wisdom;

4) Become a problem solver

Chances are your first cannabis job will require some problem solving.  Our industry is a lot of things if not a series of small & big problems to be overcome quickly and inexpensively.  You won’t get to the next rung if you can’t diagnose and solve problems, individually and as part of a team;

5) Work on your communication skills

Nothing better establishes (fairly or unfairly) people’s impressions of you – your IQ, cannabis knowledge and professionalism - in the short term than your ability to communicate through the written and spoken word; 

6) Judiciously use social media

What you think is cute, fun loving and virtuous can come across as narcissistic, immature and offensive.  Except for your small circle, no one really cares what you do or think. Don’t assume they do and understand a potential employer is probably checking out your social activity.

#personalbranding #employeegrowth #personaldevelopment #employeeengagement #coaching #managing