Imagine this: You find what seems like the perfect job

Imagine this: You find what seems like the perfect job, aligning with your skills, passions, and experience. The company’s values resonate with you, and you’re excited about the opportunity to contribute to something meaningful. But as you scroll through the job description, there’s a conspicuous absence—the salary. You’re left to wonder: Is this position truly within your financial expectations? Will it allow you to support yourself or your family? Is it even worth your time to apply?

For applicants, this lack of transparency can be incredibly frustrating. Without knowing the compensation upfront, they’re forced to invest significant time and energy into the application process, only to potentially discover that the offer doesn’t meet their needs. This isn’t just a waste of time; it’s a waste of hope, leaving many to question whether their skills and experience are valued.

But it’s not just job seekers who suffer from this lack of transparency. Employers, too, pay a hidden cost. By not disclosing salary ranges, companies may miss out on attracting top talent who might assume the pay doesn’t meet their expectations and move on without applying. They also risk alienating candidates who make it far into the interview process, only to drop out upon learning that the compensation doesn’t align with their needs. This can lead to prolonged hiring processes, increased turnover, and a tarnished reputation in the eyes of potential employees.

So why the reluctance to share salary information? Some argue that it gives companies flexibility, allowing them to adjust compensation based on a candidate’s experience or current market conditions. Others fear that publishing salary ranges might create tension among current employees who may be earning less. While these concerns are understandable, they pale in comparison to the benefits of transparency.

When salary ranges are disclosed upfront, it sets the tone for an open and honest relationship between employer and employee. It shows that the company respects the applicant’s time and values their contributions. For candidates, it provides the clarity needed to make informed decisions about their careers. And for employers, it attracts candidates who are truly aligned with the company’s expectations, leading to better matches and long-term satisfaction on both sides.

The cannabis industry has the unique opportunity to pioneer change in this area. As a sector that has emerged from the shadows of prohibition, it should champion openness and fairness. By disclosing salary ranges, #cannabis companies can build a culture of trust and integrity, fostering an environment where employees feel valued and respected.

It’s time for us to advocate for transparency in job listings. Let’s demand salary ranges in every posting. Let’s push for a hiring process that respects both the applicant’s time and the employer’s needs. After all, if the salary is competitive, why not proudly share it?