If you want to be a budtender in Canada it is absolutely necessary for you to understand the law and exhibit exceptional customer service skills. By following the five steps below you will be on your way to be a responsible budtender.
1) Check ID
Budtenders need to check ID. It’s the law. Customers sometimes forget to bring their ID and might tell you “its ok because I have been in the store before” OR “I didnt bring my ID, but the other budtenders know me.” No matter what the customer says you need to check ID. It is important to address these concerns in a polite and professional manner. A suggestion would be to say something like:
“I’m legally required to check ID, but I will be more than happy to assist you after I do that.”
2) Exhibit superior customer service skills
Customers create brand loyalty fast so it’s important to provide an exceptional customer experience. Be polite, attentive, and do not rush the customer. Some customers know exactly what they want and others may require a little time and conversation before they make a decision. The customer in front of you is your top priority. Allow them as much or as little time as they need.
Some customers also like to check out the flower products before they buy. Do not touch or sniff flower. Not only does this exhibit good customer service skills, but it is also against the law for you or the customer to touch flower with bare hands before purchase. It is also somewhat unprofessional to sniff the product in front of the customer. Provide self education on your own time and allow the customer to examine the product first.
3) Do not give medical advice
Budtenders are not allowed to give any medical advice. No matter how much you want to help someone it is against the law. If a customer asks you for recommendations provide a clear statement such as:
“I cannot legally provide any medical advice or suggestions, but I will do my best to answer any questions you may have about our products.”
4) Understand the products
Product knowledge is key when working in a cannabis retail store as you need to be the authority on the products you sell. Understanding the products will allow you to confidentally explain your products and the customer will in turn be confident in their interaction with you. Whether explaining the differences between flower strains, accessories, or simply clarifying what’s legal to possess, consume or grow in your province, every budtender should be able to understand cannabis products and the law by covering the the basics with customers when necessary.
5) Know the limits
Customers will occassionally ask for large amounts of product especially concerning flower, hash, kief, ect. It is important for a budtender to know it is illegal for a customer to carry more than 30 grams of dried flower. If a customer asks for more than the legal limit it is important to address this challenge with a polite, and clear definitive. By providing this information you will protect yourself, your business, and your customer.
For mor information regarding the legal responsibilities of a budtender and customer please check out Bill C45.
The Bud Bubbler 
very solid advice for those looking to work in the industry!
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