In 2019, there were around 7,490 marijuana dispensaries scattered across the country.
Because of this, the demand for budtenders has grown which is fantastic news if you’re passionate about cannabis and have the knowledge to match. Perhaps this is your dream career but you’re not sure where to start.
Sound familiar? Luckily, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s how to become a budtender.
What Is a Budtender?
“What is a budtender?” You ask.
Marijuana dispensaries hire budtenders because they have extensive knowledge about the products sold. You can think of them like a cannabis sommelier.
“And what does a budtender do?”
In a budtender career, you guide customers through the selection process so they find the perfect strain for their needs. During this, the budtender will ask about the client’s lifestyle, how regularly they consume cannabis, and what experience they’re after.
This means budtenders must stay atop cannabis trends, research products, and find the best strains to stock.
Education Requirements
Although it varies between states, you must at least have a high school diploma to become a budtender. Further, you must be at least 18 years old but in some places in the U.S, you have to be 21.
It’s wise to get a budtender certification as it deepens your knowledge and develops your skillset which is invaluable to dispensaries. Once you’ve got this, you’ll need work permits so you can legally work. Budtenders must also have a clean criminal record because they’re expected to be honest and reliable.
Necessary Skills
When becoming a budtender, you’re expected to know everything about the cannabis industry from the growing process of learning about the different cannabis oils.
Further, budtenders should have extensive knowledge about the various types of consumption methods like dabbing, smoking, vaping, and edibles. Budtenders should have experience with these products to help buyers looking for recommendations.
You’ll also need strong customer service abilities, listening skills, and be organized especially because cannabis menus constantly change.
Career Outlook and Salary
With more states legalizing recreational and medical cannabis, there’s plenty of opportunities for budtenders across the country. Attendees earn around $33,000 a year depending on the state and their skillset. The best way to find budtender jobs is either through an online search or to go to dispensaries and ask if they’re hiring.
Budtenders who have worked for a long time could become branch managers or executives in the dispensaries. It’s also possible to find similar careers in the industry like an organic extraction technician or growing marijuana for medical purposes.
That’s How to Become a Budtender
Now you know how to become a budtender.
Apart from passion, you must have extensive knowledge about the growing process and how to recommend the right strain for the customer. It’s important to get a bud certification, gain experience in a dispensary, and stay atop of industry trends to be successful. Good luck!
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