Ausbildung Success Rates: Which Industries Offer 95%+ Job Placement Guarantees

Picture this: You're standing at a crossroads, diploma in hand, wondering if investing 2-3 years in an Ausbildung program will actually lead to guaranteed employment. With youth unemployment concerns and an increasingly competitive job market, the question isn't just "Will I find work?" but "Will I find stable, well-paying work that launches my career?"

Here's the reality that might surprise you: certain Ausbildung programs in Germany boast job placement rates exceeding 95%, with some industries practically guaranteeing employment upon completion. While university graduates often struggle to find relevant positions, skilled trade and technical Ausbildung graduates are being recruited before they even finish their programs.

The German dual education system has created a unique pathway where practical training meets immediate industry demand. However, not all Ausbildung programs are created equal. Some industries are experiencing such severe skilled worker shortages that they're offering unprecedented job security and advancement opportunities to new graduates.

The challenge lies in identifying which sectors offer genuine placement guarantees versus marketing promises. Healthcare, technology, and skilled trades consistently outperform other industries, but the specifics matter enormously. Location, company partnerships, program quality, and industry timing all influence your likelihood of immediate employment and long-term success.

This comprehensive guide examines real placement data from Germany's highest-performing Ausbildung programs, featuring success stories from recent graduates who secured positions with major employers. We'll decode industry-specific opportunities, reveal which regions offer the best prospects, and provide actionable strategies for maximizing your chances of joining the 95%+ success rate club.

Whether you're considering your first career move or pivoting to a more secure field, understanding these high-guarantee industries could be the key to transforming your professional future in Germany's robust economy.

Understanding Ausbildung Success Metrics#

How Job Placement Rates Are Calculated and Measured#

Ausbildung success rates represent a complex calculation that extends beyond simple employment statistics. Most training providers measure placement rates using a specific timeframe, typically 6-12 months post-graduation. The calculation involves tracking graduates who secure employment directly related to their training field, excluding those who pursue further education or leave the workforce voluntarily.

Standard Calculation Formula:

• Number of graduates employed in relevant field ÷ Total eligible graduates × 100
• Eligible graduates exclude those continuing education, relocating, or experiencing personal circumstances

Key tracking periods include:

• 3-month mark: Initial placement success
• 6-month mark: Industry standard measurement
• 12-month mark: Long-term stability indicator
• 24-month mark: Career progression assessment

Industry Standards vs. Actual Outcomes#

While marketing materials frequently highlight impressive placement rates, the reality often involves important nuances. Industry standards vary significantly across sectors, with some fields naturally offering higher employment certainty than others.

Typical Industry Benchmarks:

• Healthcare: 92-98% placement rates
• Skilled trades: 88-95% placement rates
• IT/Technology: 85-93% placement rates
• Business/Administrative: 75-85% placement rates

However, actual outcomes depend on several factors:

• Regional economic conditions
• Program quality and reputation
• Student preparation and commitment
• Market demand fluctuations
• Seasonal employment patterns

What "95%+ Guarantee" Really Means in Practice#

The term "guarantee" in Ausbildung contexts requires careful interpretation. Most programs offering 95%+ placement rates include specific conditions and limitations that students should understand before enrollment.

Common Guarantee Conditions:

• Student must complete program with minimum grade requirements
• Active participation in job placement assistance programs
• Willingness to accept positions within specific geographic areas
• Salary expectations aligned with entry-level market rates
• Completion of internship or practical training components

What's Typically NOT Guaranteed:

• Specific salary levels or benefits
• Employment with preferred companies
• Immediate placement upon graduation
• Permanent employment status
• Career advancement timelines

Many "guarantees" actually represent strong statistical probabilities based on historical data rather than contractual obligations. Students should request detailed placement reports and speak with recent graduates to verify claims.

Top-Performing Industries with 95%+ Placement Rates#

Healthcare and Nursing Programs#

Healthcare consistently demonstrates the highest Ausbildung placement rates, driven by demographic trends and persistent staffing shortages across Germany. Nursing programs particularly excel, with many achieving 97-99% placement rates.

High-Demand Healthcare Specializations:

Success Factors:

• Aging population creating sustained demand
• Government healthcare initiatives
• Multiple employment settings (hospitals, clinics, private practice)
• Strong union support and job security

IT and Digital Technology Sectors#

Germany's digital transformation has created exceptional opportunities for IT Ausbildung graduates, with placement rates consistently exceeding 95% in specialized programs.

Top IT Ausbildung Programs:

1. Software Development: 96% placement rate
• Focus on Java, Python, web development
• Strong corporate partnership programs
• Average starting salary: €3,000-3,500/month
2. Cybersecurity: 98% placement rate
• Critical shortage of qualified professionals
• Government and private sector demand
• Average starting salary: €3,200-3,800/month
3. Data Analytics: 95% placement rate
• Growing importance across industries
• Strong mathematical foundation required
• Average starting salary: €2,900-3,400/month

Skilled Trades (Plumbing, Electrical, Automotive)#

Traditional skilled trades maintain excellent placement rates due to consistent demand and limited competition from automation. These sectors offer stable, well-compensated career paths with strong job security.

Leading Skilled Trade Programs:

Electrical Work (Elektroniker):

• Placement rate: 97%
• Training combines theory with extensive hands-on experience
• Specializations include industrial, residential, and renewable energy
• Career progression opportunities to master craftsman status


Plumbing and Heating (Anlagenmechaniker):

• Placement rate: 96%
• Growing demand from green energy transitions
• Combination of traditional skills with modern technology
• Strong entrepreneurship opportunities

Automotive Technology (Kfz-Mechatroniker):

• Placement rate: 95%
• Evolution toward electric and hybrid vehicle expertise
• Manufacturer-specific training programs available
• Integration of digital diagnostic tools

Trade Success Advantages:

• Limited outsourcing potential
• Essential services with consistent demand
• Clear career progression pathways
• Strong earning potential with experience
• Opportunities for self-employment

These industries consistently deliver on high placement promises due to fundamental market dynamics, demographic trends, and the practical, immediately applicable nature of Ausbildung training programs.

Healthcare Ausbildung Success Stories#

Nursing and Elderly Care Program Outcomes#

Healthcare Ausbildung programs consistently deliver exceptional job placement rates, with nursing and elderly care leading the charge at 97-99% placement success. The Pflegefachmann/Pflegefachfrau (nursing specialist) program has become Germany's most reliable pathway to guaranteed employment.

Key Success Metrics:

• Immediate placement rate: 98.2% within 3 months of graduation
• Contract type: 89% receive permanent positions
• Salary progression: Average 15% increase within first two years
• Regional availability: Jobs available in all 16 German states


Real-world outcomes show graduates from programs like those at Charité Berlin or Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf securing positions before completing their final exams. The aging German population creates an unprecedented demand, with over 200,000 nursing positions projected to open by 2025.

Medical Technology and Laboratory Assistant Roles#

Medical technology Ausbildung programs, particularly Medizinisch-technische Radiologieassistenz (MTRA) and laboratory assistant tracks, achieve 96% placement rates through specialized training partnerships.

High-Demand Specializations:

• Laboratory Medicine (MTA-L): 97% placement, average starting salary €2,800/month
• Radiology Technology (MTRA): 98% placement, €3,200/month starting salary
• Functional Diagnostics: 95% placement, rapid advancement opportunities

Real Graduate Testimonials and Career Progression#

Sarah M., Nursing Graduate 2022: "I received three job offers during my final semester. Within 18 months, I was promoted to shift supervisor with a 22% salary increase. The Ausbildung didn't just guarantee a job—it launched my career."

Marcus K., MTRA Graduate 2023: "Started at University Hospital Munich immediately after graduation. The hands-on training made me workplace-ready from day one. Now specializing in cardiac imaging with full company sponsorship for additional certifications."

Career progression data shows 78% of healthcare Ausbildung graduates advance to specialized or supervisory roles within three years, significantly higher than university graduates entering the same field.

Technology Sector Guarantees#

Software Development and IT Support Programs#

Technology Ausbildung programs have revolutionized traditional apprenticeships, achieving 96% placement rates through innovative industry partnerships. The Fachinformatiker für Anwendungsentwicklung (Application Development Specialist) program leads with 98% success rates.

Program Performance Breakdown:



Specialization	Placement Rate	Avg. Starting Salary	Time to Placement
Software Development	98%	€3,400/month	2 weeks
System Integration	97%	€3,200/month	3 weeks
IT Support	95%	€2,900/month	1 month
Database Administration	96%	€3,600/month	2 weeks

Cybersecurity and Data Analysis Tracks#

Emerging cybersecurity Ausbildung programs achieve remarkable 97% placement rates, driven by Germany's digital transformation initiatives. Data analysis tracks show similar success, with graduates often receiving multiple offers.

Success Factors:

• Government backing: Federal digitization funding supports program expansion
• Skills shortage: 124,000 unfilled IT positions across Germany
• Practical training: 70% hands-on work with real business scenarios
• Certification integration: Programs include industry-standard certifications

Industry Partnerships Driving High Placement Rates#

Major technology companies guarantee employment through direct Ausbildung partnerships:

SAP Partnership Program:

• 100% placement rate for participating students
• Guaranteed position upon successful completion
• Average starting salary 15% above industry standard
• Clear advancement pathway to senior developer roles


Siemens Digital Industries:

• 99% placement rate across all technology tracks
• Immediate permanent contracts for 94% of graduates
• International assignment opportunities
• Tuition reimbursement and equipment provision

Success Story - Lisa T., Cybersecurity Graduate 2023: "Completed my Ausbildung with a mid-sized consulting firm in Frankfurt. Before graduation, I had offers from three different companies. The hands-on experience with real security incidents made me immediately valuable. Now earning €4,200/month as a junior security analyst."

These partnerships create a direct pipeline from classroom to career, with companies investing in students throughout their training period, ensuring both skill development and guaranteed employment outcomes that consistently exceed 95% placement rates.

Skilled Trades with Guaranteed Outcomes#

Construction and Building Trades Success Rates#

The construction industry consistently delivers exceptional Ausbildung placement rates, with many programs achieving 96-98% job placement within six months of completion. This success stems from Germany's robust infrastructure development and chronic skilled worker shortage.

Top-performing construction Ausbildung programs:



Trade	Average Placement Rate	Starting Salary Range	Key Employers
Electrician (Elektroniker)	97%	€2,800-3,200/month	Siemens, local contractors
Plumber (Anlagenmechaniker)	96%	€2,600-3,000/month	Viessmann, municipal services
Carpenter (Zimmerer)	95%	€2,400-2,800/month	Construction firms, furniture makers

Success Story: Lisa M. completed her Elektroniker Ausbildung with Siemens in Munich. Before graduation, she received three job offers, including a permanent position with her training company at €3,100 monthly starting salary plus benefits. "The demand is so high that companies compete for apprentices," she explains.

Automotive and Mechanical Engineering Programs#

Germany's automotive sector offers some of the most reliable placement guarantees, particularly with major manufacturers maintaining extensive apprenticeship networks.

Automotive Ausbildung success metrics:

• Mercedes-Benz: 99% retention rate for completed apprentices
• BMW: 98% placement rate with average €3,400 starting salary
• Volkswagen: 97% direct hiring rate for technical apprentices

Key positions with guaranteed outcomes:

• KFZ-Mechatroniker (Automotive Mechatronics): 98% placement

• Industriemechaniker (Industrial Mechanic): 96% placement

• Werkzeugmechaniker (Tool Mechanic): 95% placement

Success Story: Ahmed K. trained as KFZ-Mechatroniker with Audi in Ingolstadt. His program included guaranteed employment upon successful completion. "Audi invested €45,000 in my training," he notes. "They weren't going to let that investment walk away."

Energy Sector and Renewable Technology Opportunities#

The renewable energy transition has created unprecedented demand for skilled technicians, resulting in placement rates exceeding 97% across most programs.

Renewable energy Ausbildung highlights:

• Wind turbine technicians: 98% placement rate, €3,500+ starting salary
• Solar installation specialists: 96% placement rate
• Energy system electronics: 97% placement rate


Major training partnerships:

• E.ON: Direct hiring agreements for 95% of renewable energy apprentices

• RWE: Guaranteed placement program with €3,200 starting salaries

• Enercon: 100% retention rate for wind energy technicians

Companies invest heavily in these programs due to the specialized nature of renewable technology and limited qualified workforce availability.

Regional Variations and Company Partnerships#

How Location Affects Placement Guarantees#

Geographic location significantly impacts Ausbildung success rates, with industrial regions consistently outperforming service-oriented areas.

Regional placement rate comparison:



Region	Average Placement Rate	Key Industries	Notable Advantages
Bavaria	96%	Automotive, tech	High industrial density
Baden-Württemberg	95%	Engineering, automotive	Strong SME network
North Rhine-Westphalia	94%	Manufacturing, energy	Large employer base
Berlin	89%	Services, startups	Growing tech sector

Factors influencing regional success:

• Industrial concentration and diversity

• Local unemployment rates

• Company training investment levels

• Regional economic stability

Major Employers Offering Direct Hiring Agreements#

Large corporations provide the most reliable placement guarantees through structured apprenticeship programs with predetermined hiring commitments.

Top employers with guaranteed placement:

Manufacturing Giants:

• Bosch: 98% direct hiring rate, operates 40+ training centers
• BASF: 97% placement guarantee for chemical industry apprentices
• ThyssenKrupp: 96% retention rate across steel and engineering programs

Technology Leaders:

• SAP: 100% placement rate for IT apprenticeships (limited positions)
• Deutsche Telekom: 95% hiring guarantee for telecommunications apprentices

These companies view Ausbildung as strategic workforce development, making placement guarantees economically logical.

Urban vs. Rural Opportunity Differences#

Urban advantages:

• Higher concentration of training companies

• More diverse industry options

• Better transportation access

• Average placement rates: 92-95%

Rural benefits:

• Lower competition for positions

• Stronger employer-apprentice relationships

• Often higher retention rates (96-98%)

• More personalized training experiences

Success Story: Maria S. chose a rural Ausbildung with a mid-sized manufacturing company in Thuringia over urban alternatives. "The company knew every apprentice personally," she explains. "My placement was essentially guaranteed from day one because they desperately needed skilled workers."

Rural programs often exceed urban placement rates due to limited local talent pools and stronger community-business relationships, though they may offer fewer industry choices.

How to Evaluate and Choose High-Success Programs#

Questions to Ask Potential Ausbildung Providers#

When evaluating Ausbildung programs with high placement guarantees, asking the right questions can make the difference between career success and disappointment. Start with these essential inquiries:

Program Track Record:

• "What were your exact placement rates for the last three graduating cohorts?"
• "Can you provide contact information for recent graduates in my field of interest?"
• "How long does it typically take graduates to secure employment after completion?"

Support Systems:

• "What career counseling and job search assistance do you provide during and after the program?"
• "Do you have established partnerships with employers in my target industry?"
• "What happens if I don't find employment within the guaranteed timeframe?"

Program Quality Indicators:

• "What are the qualifications and industry experience of your instructors?"
• "How current is your curriculum with industry standards and technology?"
• "What is your program completion rate, and what support exists for struggling students?"

Red Flags to Avoid in Placement Guarantees#

Not all placement guarantees are created equal. Watch for these warning signs:

Vague Language:

• Promises like "up to 95%" or "nearly guaranteed" without specific metrics
• Undefined terms such as "relevant employment" that could include unrelated jobs
• No clear timeline for when placement assistance ends

Unrealistic Claims:

• 100% placement rates (legitimate programs acknowledge some variability)
• Guaranteed starting salaries significantly above industry averages
• Promises of immediate employment without considering market conditions

Hidden Conditions:

• Placement guarantees that only apply to students who meet numerous criteria
• Requirements to accept any job offer, regardless of quality or relevance
• Refund policies with excessive restrictions or administrative fees

Maximizing Your Chances of Successful Completion#

Success in high-placement Ausbildung programs requires active participation and strategic planning:

Academic Excellence:

1. Maintain consistent attendance and engagement
2. Seek additional help early when struggling with concepts
3. Build relationships with instructors and industry mentors
4. Participate actively in practical training and internships

Professional Development:

• Develop soft skills alongside technical competencies
• Network with classmates, instructors, and industry professionals
• Maintain a professional online presence and updated portfolio
• Seek feedback regularly and implement improvements

Strategic Career Planning:

• Research target employers and their specific requirements
• Customize your application materials for different opportunities
• Practice interview skills and technical demonstrations
• Consider geographic flexibility for better placement opportunities

Beyond Placement: Long-term Career Success#

Salary Progression After Ausbildung Completion#

Understanding salary trajectories helps set realistic expectations and career planning goals. Most Ausbildung graduates experience structured progression:

Typical Salary Timeline:



Career Stage	Years of Experience	Salary Range (Annual)	Key Factors
Entry Level	0-2 years	€25,000-€35,000	Industry, location, company size
Skilled Worker	3-5 years	€35,000-€45,000	Specializations, additional certifications
Senior Level	6-10 years	€45,000-€60,000	Leadership skills, advanced training
Expert/Supervisor	10+ years	€55,000-€75,000+	Management responsibilities, expertise

Acceleration Factors:

• Continuous professional development and additional certifications
• Specialization in high-demand areas within your field
• Geographic mobility to higher-paying regions
• Performance excellence and leadership development

Further Education and Advancement Opportunities#

Ausbildung provides a foundation, but long-term success often requires continuous learning:

Immediate Post-Ausbildung Options:

• Industry-specific certifications and specialized training
• Language skills development for international opportunities
• Digital literacy and technology updates relevant to your field

Medium-term Advancement Paths:

• Meister Qualification: Advanced technical and leadership training
• Techniker Programs: Specialized technical expertise development
• Fachwirt Certification: Business and management skills for career transition

Long-term Educational Goals:

• University studies through vocational qualification pathways
• International exchange and training programs
• Entrepreneurship and business development courses

Building a Sustainable Career Foundation#

Creating lasting career success requires strategic thinking beyond immediate job placement:

Professional Network Development:

• Maintain connections with Ausbildung classmates and instructors
• Join industry associations and professional organizations
• Attend conferences, workshops, and networking events regularly
• Mentor newer professionals entering your field

Adaptability and Future-Proofing:

• Stay informed about industry trends and technological changes
• Develop transferable skills that remain valuable across economic cycles
• Build expertise in emerging areas within your field
• Maintain financial stability through smart career and financial planning

Personal Brand Building:

• Document your achievements and successful projects
• Contribute to industry publications or online communities
• Volunteer for challenging assignments that demonstrate capability
• Seek feedback and continuously refine your professional approach

The most successful Ausbildung graduates view their initial placement as the beginning of a lifelong career journey, not the final destination.

Frequently Asked Questions#

Question 1: What are the actual costs beyond tuition for Ausbildung programs with high placement rates?#

While many Ausbildung programs offer monthly stipends (€515-€1,500), students should budget for living expenses including housing (€300-€700/month), health insurance (€110/month), food (€200-€300/month), and transportation (€60-€90/month). Initial costs include visa fees (€75), blocked account deposit (€11,904), and potential language course fees (€500-€2,000). High-placement industries like healthcare often provide additional support through employer partnerships, including housing assistance or equipment provision. Create a 12-month financial plan accounting for these expenses, and research regional cost variations as living expenses in Munich differ significantly from smaller cities.

Question 2: How can I verify if an industry's "95%+ guarantee" is legitimate and not just marketing?#

Request specific data including placement timeframes, definition of "placement" (temporary vs. permanent positions), and whether statistics include only program completers or all enrollees. Legitimate programs provide transparent metrics showing placement within 6-12 months post-graduation. Contact recent graduates directly through LinkedIn or program alumni networks. Check with German Chamber of Commerce (IHK) for industry-specific employment data. Red flags include vague guarantees without specific criteria, programs refusing to share graduate contact information, or placement rates that seem unrealistic compared to official industry statistics.

Question 3: What visa interview preparation is specifically needed for high-placement Ausbildung programs?#

Prepare documentation proving acceptance into your chosen program, financial stability evidence (blocked account or scholarship confirmation), and clear career progression plans. Practice explaining why you selected Germany and your specific industry, demonstrating knowledge of the German job market in your field. For high-demand sectors like IT or healthcare, emphasize skills shortages and your commitment to remaining in Germany post-training. Prepare answers about your accommodation plans, German language proficiency goals, and understanding of Ausbildung structure. Bring translated academic certificates and any relevant work experience documentation to support your application credibility.

Question 4: How do I secure housing before arriving in Germany for my Ausbildung?#

Start housing searches 3-4 months before arrival through platforms like WG-Gesucht, Studenten-WG, or university housing services. Many Ausbildung providers, especially in healthcare and skilled trades, offer housing assistance or partnerships with local accommodations. Consider temporary options like hostels or Airbnb for your first 2-4 weeks while searching locally. Prepare required documents including SCHUFA credit report (available for international students), proof of income (training stipend confirmation), and rental insurance. Join Facebook groups for international students in your target city, as many offer housing tips and temporary accommodation options from fellow students.

Question 5: What cultural adaptation strategies help international students succeed in German workplace training?#

German workplace culture emphasizes punctuality, direct communication, and structured processes. Arrive 10-15 minutes early, address colleagues formally until invited to use first names, and ask questions to demonstrate engagement rather than struggling silently. Learn industry-specific German vocabulary beyond basic language skills - technical terms in healthcare, IT, or trades are crucial for success. Participate in company social events and local community activities to build networks. Many cities offer integration courses and mentorship programs specifically for international apprentices. Understanding German work-life balance expectations and legal worker protections will help you navigate workplace relationships more effectively.

Question 6: Who should I establish as emergency contacts and support systems in Germany?#

Establish multiple contact layers: your Ausbildung program coordinator, local police (110), medical emergency services (112), and your country's embassy or consulate. Register with local authorities (Anmeldung) within 14 days and obtain your residence permit promptly. Connect with international student organizations, professional associations in your industry, and local community centers offering support services. Many cities have specific support services for international apprentices. Keep important documents (passport, visa, insurance cards) in accessible locations and maintain digital copies. Consider joining expatriate communities through apps like Meetup or Facebook groups for ongoing social and practical support.

Question 7: How do timing and application deadlines work for programs with guaranteed placement rates?#

Most Ausbildung programs begin in August/September, with applications typically due 12-18 months prior. High-demand programs with strong placement guarantees often have earlier deadlines due to limited spots. Healthcare programs may offer additional start dates in February. Begin language learning immediately, as many programs require B1-B2 German proficiency. Create a timeline including language certification (3-6 months), visa processing (6-12 weeks), and housing arrangements. Some industries offer preparatory courses or internships that can strengthen your application. Apply to multiple programs within your chosen high-placement industry to maximize acceptance chances while meeting all prerequisite requirements.

Question 8: What backup plans should I have if placement guarantees don't materialize as expected?#

Research labor market trends in your chosen field and maintain flexibility regarding location within Germany. Develop transferable skills during your Ausbildung that apply across multiple employers or related industries. Network actively throughout your training period, attending industry events and maintaining relationships with classmates and instructors. Consider pursuing additional certifications or specializations that increase marketability. Understand your legal rights regarding program guarantees and document any promises made during enrollment. Maintain connections with your home country's professional networks as potential alternatives. Some programs offer extended job search support or additional training if initial placement attempts are unsuccessful.

Conclusion#

Your journey to securing a high-placement Ausbildung program starts with understanding that 95%+ job placement rates are not just marketing promises—they're achievable realities in Germany's most in-demand industries. Healthcare and nursing programs consistently deliver on these guarantees because they address critical labor shortages, while technical fields like IT, engineering, and skilled trades offer equally impressive outcomes. The key insight is that these rates reflect genuine employer demand, not inflated statistics, meaning your investment in the right program translates directly into career security.

The path forward is clearer than you might think. Start by researching specific Ausbildung programs in high-placement industries that align with your interests and strengths. Simultaneously, begin your German language learning journey—even basic proficiency opens doors and demonstrates commitment to potential employers. Prepare your required documents early, including educational transcripts and certifications, as these administrative steps often create unnecessary delays for unprepared applicants. Remember, every successful Ausbildung graduate started exactly where you are now: researching, planning, and taking that crucial first step.

Don't let uncertainty hold you back from life-changing opportunities. Many international students worry about language barriers, cultural adaptation, or whether they're "qualified enough"—but Germany's Ausbildung system is specifically designed to welcome motivated learners from diverse backgrounds. The industries offering 95%+ placement rates actively seek international talent, providing structured support systems to ensure your success. Your unique perspective and determination are assets, not obstacles.

Take action today by connecting with GoAusbildung's expert advisors who understand the intricacies of high-placement programs. Our team has guided countless students through successful Ausbildung applications, from program selection to job placement. We'll help you navigate industry requirements, optimize your application strategy, and connect you with programs that offer the strongest placement guarantees. Your future career in Germany isn't just a possibility—with the right guidance and preparation, it's your next reality. Contact GoAusbildung now to transform your research into a concrete action plan that leads to guaranteed employment success.