| Two weeks ago, a gentleman by the name of Marvin Montgomery walked into an auditorium filled with about 100 of my colleagues from GIE Media (the parent company of Cannabis Business Times).
A motivational speaker with 32 years of experience as a professional sales trainer, Marvin arrived with a carefree smile and gave us two options: We could spend the next two hours watching him have fun, or we could have fun with him. Either way, he would not be deterred. Personally, I chose fun.
Granted his audience that day included editors, publishers, sales representatives, marketers and other professionals, Marvin had a message that could relate to everyone, which revolved around our professional approaches with others—both internally with our team members and externally with our supporters and readers.
Two main points he hammered off the bat were: asking questions and active listening. Those simple, yet often forgotten, conversational manners during our interactions with others can help provide clarity and solutions, build relationships, make people feel heard and save time. A genuine smile or laugh goes a long way, too.
One of my main takeaways was to live in the present, not letting yesterday’s troubles or tomorrow’s worries be reflected in my daily discourses with others—both at work and at home. Marvin framed it as “can’t do” and “can do” buckets. Whatever is out of your control, toss it in the former bucket and dump it regularly. If something’s in the can-do bucket, take care of it swiftly.
Another personal takeaway was that my company values its workers, from benefits and incentives to group outings, a student-loan repayment program, tuition reimbursement and some unique professional development opportunities that empower a team-oriented workplace. Oh—and the opportunity to “Get Marvinized.”
How does your company motivate its workers? How does your team have fun? What offerings do you provide?
If you have what it takes to be considered one of the Best Cannabis Companies to Work For—2023, then we’ll recognize you for it in our awards program.
For the fourth year in a row, Cannabis Business Times and Cannabis Dispensary will identify and honor the best employers in the cannabis cultivation and retail markets. The registration deadline is Sept. 2.
-Tony Lange, Associate Editor | 
