Enterprising Personality Type (Holland E): The Persuaders

The Enterprising Holland type enjoys leading, persuading, selling and taking risks for reward. Learn its traits, values, ideal environments, neighbouring RIASEC types and common codes.

The Enterprising type, the “Persuaders”, loves to lead, influence and compete. They are energised by goals, deals and opportunities, and they enjoy convincing others to follow their vision.

Find your code with the Holland code test.

Enterprising At A Glance

AspectEnterprising
LikesLeading, selling, negotiating, starting things
ValuesStatus, achievement, influence, financial success
PrefersAction and persuasion over research
Sees self asConfident, sociable, ambitious
Hexagon neighboursSocial and Conventional
OppositeInvestigative

Typical Traits

  • Ambitious: sets high goals and pursues them.
  • Persuasive: good at convincing and negotiating.
  • Energetic: comfortable with pace and pressure.
  • Risk-tolerant: willing to bet on opportunities.
  • Sociable: builds networks easily.

Ideal Work Environments

  • Sales and business development teams.
  • Startups and entrepreneurial ventures.
  • Law firms and courtrooms.
  • Politics and public affairs.
  • Management and leadership roles across industries.

Common Enterprising Codes

CodeFlavourExample careers
ESCPeople-focused organiserHR manager, event manager
ESACreative persuaderMarketing manager, PR specialist
ECSBusiness managerHotel manager, financial adviser
EIRTechnical entrepreneurTech founder, consultant
ERCPractical managerConstruction manager, operations manager

Enterprising Types And Entrepreneurship

Research on vocational interests links Enterprising interests with starting businesses and moving into management. Many founders combine Enterprising with Investigative or Artistic interests, pairing persuasion with ideas.

Explore The Enterprising Type

Or return to all six Holland types.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Enterprising mean entrepreneurial?

Partly. It covers leading, selling and influencing, whether in your own business or an organisation.

Why is Investigative opposite Enterprising?

Investigative work focuses on ideas and analysis; Enterprising work focuses on persuasion and action.

Are Enterprising types natural leaders?

Many are drawn to leadership, though good leadership also needs listening and care.

Interests describe preferences, not abilities.