When people learn about my profession, I tend to receive a lot of questions. A whole lot. After the standard, "How did you get into the industry?", the next most common question is "How can I get into the industry?" I've received this question from so many people, and I've been pleasantly surprised by the types of people who ask. I think it's very telling of our place in history that both college students and Wall Street professionals alike are looking for opportunities to enter this business.
So, for those of you looking to find your place in the legal marijuana industry, here are my top 5 tips for you:
Jump in! This is a great growing industry with lots of potential for future development for you personally. To get started, I'd suggest getting involved with your local advocacy group: NORML, NCIA, or the local Marijuana Policy Project. (You could also move to Colorado, Washington or California, depending on your personal situation.
Get your feet wet. Get a job with one of the companies that sells or provides a service to the other marijuana companies. Companies like WeedMaps or BestBuds provide a service for others in the marijuana industry, without being directly involved with cultivation or sales. This type of job will give you the opportunity to see a lot first-hand and learn a lot.
Dedicate yourself. Give your first job in the industry 6 months or so. During this time learn as much as you possibly can and meet as many people as you can. Figure out where your passion life, and what contribution you think you can make to the industry. Then, start looking for the job that allows you to channel your passion and desire, and that you'll love doing (at least for awhile).
Never stop learning. Open yourself up to new experiences, take advantage of industry networking opportunities and attend local advocacy events. When the next position or opportunity speaks to you — take it.
Don't miss the boat. There is a lot happening in this industry and a lot of opportunities in all sorts of niches continue to present themselves. If you want to get involved and don't do so now, someone else will. So find a niche to stake your claim in, and help us to write history.
Bottom line is this: Abundance awaits in this industry. There is no time like now, so get in and don't forget to have fun!
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Find more information about marijuana entrepreneurship in Christian Hageseth's book "Big Weed: An Entrepreneur's High Stakes Adventures in the Budding Legal Marijuana Business."