After working in cannabis for more than a decade, these are the 3 simple (but effective) pieces of advice I'd give anyone starting out:

#1: Don't Start as a Budtender.

Contrary to popular belief, a job as a budtender is not the first step on the fast track to success in cannabis.

Far from it. Budtender roles have among the highest turnover in the industry, and are treated as such by management.

The "corporate ladder" from is a lot longer than you might think.

#2: Try everything.

If you work in cannabis, you should be open to trying cannabis products.

You need to establish a relationship with cannabis to work in cannabis.

Even if you are not in sales, an understanding of your personal preferences and current market offerings will set you apart from those without.

#3: Grow your own.

If you aren't going to consume cannabis, grow it.

There is no better way to understand the nuances of the space than cultivating the plant that makes it all possible.

Plus, you may end up with unexpected professional opportunities as a result (most people who work in cannabis have never grown a plant).

To Recap:

If you are just getting started in the cannabis industry:

• Don't start at the bottom.

• Try everything.

• Grow your own.