Combating Title Inflation in the Cannabis Industry

In recent years, job title inflation has been on the rise, where employees are often given inflated job titles that don't align with their actual responsibilities and seniority within an organization. 

This practice has become widespread across various industries, driven by several factors. Companies use fancy job titles as a means to attract and retain talented employees, aiming to make them feel valued and important. Additionally, in a competitive job market, some companies feel compelled to offer impressive job titles along with perks and benefits to stay competitive.

However, job title inflation can have detrimental effects on both employees and employers. It can lead to confusion and miscommunication within organizations, causing inefficiencies and mistakes. Moreover, it can foster resentment among employees who perceive inequality in title assignments. To address this issue, companies should prioritize transparency and honesty regarding job titles and responsibilities. Promoting open communication and feedback within the workplace can help employees voice concerns about job title inflation and other related matters.

Simultaneously, the hiring process in the U.S. is evolving, with employers reconsidering the significance of higher education. The practice of emphasizing university degrees in hiring, known as "degree inflation," has had significant consequences. During the Great Recession, employers started demanding college degrees for positions that previously required only a high school diploma, leading to a significant increase in degree requirements. However, this trend has shifted as employers now need a larger workforce due to the COVID-19 pandemic and are more open to hiring candidates without degrees.

Moreover, the importance of technical skills has decreased with automation and technological advancements, making soft skills like relationship management and problem-solving more valuable. Title inflation has hidden costs, including unfilled positions, increased payroll expenses, reduced productivity, and high turnover rates. It has a negative impact on cannabis businesses as well, hindering their ability to hire skilled employees.

To combat title inflation, cannabis companies can:

1. Review job descriptions and assess their contribution to title inflation.

We suggest conducting a thorough review of your company's job roles to identify if they are susceptible to title inflation. Examine job descriptions crafted by prominent figures within the cannabis industry to gauge whether your prerequisites contribute to title inflation. Contemplate the possibility of eliminating prerequisites for roles that typically contribute to title inflation.

2. Identify the technical and soft skills required for positions.

We strongly recommend assessing the technical and soft skills essential for roles within your cannabis company. Scrutinize your job descriptions to ascertain whether they necessitate soft skills that candidates without degrees could possess. Remove degree prerequisites from job descriptions where technical education from universities isn't necessary. Furthermore, review your candidate selection process and eliminate burdensome educational requirements for positions that demand additional soft skills.

3. Analyze the costs of contributing to title inflation.

Gaining insight into your cannabis company's role in title inflation reduces the expenses associated with perpetuating this issue. Establishing measurable metrics to evaluate your company's involvement in title inflation aids in understanding the associated costs. Recognizing the potential savings for your company reinforces the commitment to combatting title inflation.

4. Develop pipelines for non-degree employees through training.

Your cannabis firm should establish alternative avenues for sourcing talent, particularly non-degree candidates. Investing in training programs creates these talent channels, granting access to fresh pools of capable and efficient prospects. These training investments appeal to candidates without college degrees and actively address the issue of title inflation.

5. Expand recruiting efforts geographically to access a broader talent pool.

We suggest broadening your company's geographical reach when conducting recruitment. Building partnerships in new regions opens doors to untapped sources of talent. Expanding your recruitment scope serves as a defense against title inflation.

The cannabis industry, rooted in social justice principles, has an opportunity to set an example for other sectors in addressing title inflation and supporting equitable hiring practices.