The cannabis industry has grown into a multi-billion dollar industry, first with the legalization of cannabis in Canada, and now in several U.S. states as well. Despite having been safely consumed by people for thousands of years, many regulators believe the safest approach is a paternalistic one, and the cannabis industry is highly regulated as a result. Even so, it is one of the fastest-growing industries in the world, and offers a range of job opportunities. One of the most sought-after careers within the industry is that of budtender.
What is a Budtender?
A budtender is a retail cannabis employee who helps customers with their cannabis needs, such as answering questions and teaching consumers about cannabis products. They’re also responsible for providing accurate information about cannabis, including knowing about strains, potency, and effects. Because of this, knowing how to help customers choose the right products based on their preferences and needs is an important part of what they do.
Budtenders are the face of the cannabis dispensary, and they play a vital role in ensuring that customers have a positive experience. In addition to providing excellent customer service, budtenders must have a deep understanding of how cannabis works, how consumers are affected by different products, and how to consume them safely. And beyond that, the budtender must know how to communicate that information to the customer in a way that makes sense to them. The best budtenders are excellent teachers!
The Role of a Budtender in the Regulated Cannabis Industry
Budtenders play a critical role in ensuring that customers have access to high-quality cannabis products. They also offer important education to consumers, and help them navigate the complex world of cannabis, while providing them with accurate and reliable information. Not only that, but budtenders are also responsible for ensuring that customers have the information to consume cannabis safely and responsibly. Many consumers are new to cannabis, or are returning after having consumed many years ago, so helping them understand what products to purchase, what dosages to look for, and how to have the best consumption experience is an important part of a budtender’s role.
Budtenders work closely with other dispensary employees, including managers, growers, and security personnel, so they need to be able to get along with lots of different kinds of people. They must maintain a professional and courteous demeanor, regardless of the store’s culture, and adhere to strict regulations and guidelines to ensure their store maintains their license and can continue to operate.
Skills and Qualifications Needed to Become a Budtender
To become a budtender, you must have excellent customer service skills, a deep understanding of cannabis’ effects on the human body, and knowledge about different products and consumption methods. Budtenders must also be able to communicate effectively with customers and provide them with accurate and reliable information.
In addition to customer service skills, budtenders need a strong work ethic and be able to work in a fast-paced environment. They have to be able to multitask and handle multiple customer requests simultaneously, all without losing their cool!
In most Canadian provinces, budtenders must be 19 years old (or 18 in Alberta). Quebec and most U.S. states require budtenders to be at least 21 years old. Budtenders are generally required to have a high school diploma or equivalent, and some jurisdictions also require budtenders to pass a background check and obtain a government-issued license, such as the Cansell in Canada.
Steps to Launch Your Career as a Budtender
- Research the cannabis industry: Before pursuing a career as a budtender, it is essential to research the cannabis industry and understand the regulations and guidelines that govern it.
- Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent: Most places require budtenders to have a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Gain relevant experience: Relevant experience in customer service, retail, or hospitality can be beneficial when pursuing a career as a budtender.
- Complete a budtender training program: Many locations require budtenders to complete an in-store training program that covers products sold, customer service, and shop safety. Completing a certified program like Level UP sends a strong signal to potential and current employers that you take your career very seriously.
- Obtain a government-issued license: Canadian regulations and the laws in many states require budtenders to obtain a government-issued license before working in a cannabis dispensary.
Training and Education Resources for Budtenders
There are several training and education resources available for aspiring budtenders. Many cannabis dispensaries offer in-house training programs, and there are also online courses and certification programs available.
Level UP is one of the most popular training and education resources for budtenders looking to learn more about cannabis products, how cannabis works with the human body, and how to work with customers to sell them the right products for their needs because it was written specifically for budtenders who want to learn to do their job as successfully as they can.
Tips for Landing Your First Job as a Budtender
- Network: Attend industry events and job fairs to meet industry professionals and make connections. Remember that you get what you give, so be willing to offer whatever help you can to those you meet.
- Gain relevant experience: Relevant experience in customer service, retail, or hospitality can be beneficial when pursuing a career as a budtender.
- Create a strong resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your relevant experience and skills. Be sure to highlight any sales and customer experience, as it will directly translate to your role as a budtender.
- Prepare for the interview: Research the dispensary and prepare for common interview questions. Get a friend to help you by asking questions so you can practice your responses.
- Be professional: Dress professionally and maintain a professional demeanor during the interview process. Be sure to arrive on time, or even a little early.
Career Advancement Opportunities for Budtenders
Budtenders can advance their careers by gaining experience, getting additional certifications and licenses, and pursuing leadership roles within the dispensary, such as keyholder or manager. Some budtenders may also choose to start their own cannabis business or work in other areas of the cannabis industry, such as putting on events and cannabis hospitality tours. The cannabis industry continues to grow at a rapid pace. As the market and consumers mature, and regulations shift, more and more opportunities for unique and creative roles within the industry will be created.
Challenges and Future Outlook for the Regulated Cannabis Industry
As the cannabis industry continues to grow and evolve, it faces several challenges, including the lack of federal regulations in the U.S., the highly restrictive regulations in Canada, banking restrictions, and a lack of access to traditional financial services. However, the future outlook for the regulated cannabis industry is positive, with continued growth and job opportunities, especially as time goes on and cannabis consumption becomes a more normalized part of daily life throughout society.
As more and more consumers discover the benefits of cannabis, and want to learn to use cannabis products with intention, budtenders will be even more in demand to answer customers’ questions, teach them about cannabis and their own Endocannabinoid System, and help them choose the right products for their body and lifestyle.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Becoming a budtender in the regulated cannabis industry can be a rewarding and exciting career path. By gaining relevant experience, completing training programs, and obtaining a government-issued license, you can launch your career as a budtender and play a vital role in the cannabis industry.
If you are interested in launching your career as a budtender, start by researching the regulations and guidelines that govern the cannabis industry in your location. Completing a budtender training program like Level UP will also send a very strong signal to any potential employer that you’re knowledgeable and proactive with your career.
You can also check out the cannabis events in your area—networking with industry professionals and preparing for interviews to land your first job as a budtender are two activities that will take you far! It’s also important to gain relevant experience in customer service, retail, or hospitality, as customer service is just as important in a dispensary as cannabis knowledge.