self-starters
Independently motivated workers
Self-starters are people who take initiative without needing external motivation or direction.
The term comes from early automobile technology—a self-starter was an electric motor that started the engine without hand-cranking.
Applied to people, it suggests someone who gets moving on their own: We're looking for self-starters who can work independently.
Common in job postings and résumés.
Strongly desiring achievement
- determinedFirmly committed to purpose
- motivatedSpurred to action
- go-getterAmbitious, driven person
- zealousPassionately eager and active
tenacious · persevering · passionate · dedicated · committed · hardworking · industrious · focused
Acting before problems arise
- resourcefulSkilled at solving problems
- gumptionSpirited practical courage
- ingenuityClever, original thinking
- wherewithalResources enabling action
assertive · enterprising · action-oriented · ready · eager · forward-thinking · anticipatory · hands-on
One who begins something
- startupNew business enterprise
- ventureRisky new undertaking
- bootstrappingSelf-starting without external input
- businessCommercial activity or occupation
innovation · incubator · pitch · disruptor · franchise · scaleup · solopreneur · freelancer
Self-directed and free
- soloPerformance by one
- loneExisting by itself
- single-handedWithout help from others
- unaidedWithout external support
ambitious
Strongly desiring achievement
- determinedFirmly committed to purpose
- motivatedSpurred to action
- go-getterAmbitious, driven person
zealous · tenacious · persevering · passionate · dedicated · committed · hardworking · industrious · focused · energetic
proactive
Acting before problems arise
- resourcefulSkilled at solving problems
- gumptionSpirited practical courage
- ingenuityClever, original thinking
wherewithal · assertive · enterprising · action-oriented · ready · eager · forward-thinking · anticipatory · hands-on · problem-solver
founder
One who begins something
- startupNew business enterprise
- ventureRisky new undertaking
- bootstrappingSelf-starting without external input
business · innovation · incubator · pitch · disruptor · franchise · scaleup · solopreneur · freelancer · hustle
autonomous
Self-directed and free
- soloPerformance by one
- loneExisting by itself
- single-handedWithout help from others
- entrepreneursfounder, co-founder, startup founder, business owner, serial entrepreneur
- self-employedfreelancers, freelancer, freelance, solopreneur, independent contractors
- newcomersnewcomers, newcomer, new arrivals, new arrival, newbie
- VIPscelebrities, superstars, head of state, stars, legend