An occupational career, ideally, consists of entry into a position at the lowest rung of a career ladder, followed by an orderly sequence of promotions to positions at successively higher status levels and finally to retirement. Approximately 85 per cent of American workers are employed by work organizations. These organizations create occupational career lines with graded steps in order to obtain and retain proficient and loyal officials and specialists. Research reveals that few American men outside the professions, management and the skilled crafts have had occupational careers. The work lives of others have been characterized by lack of commitment to any specific occupation. The pursuit of an occupational career involves a number of pivotal decisions, including early occupational choice and decisions at various occupational turning points. These decisions are not made in isolation. Others are almost always involved and frequently crucial decisions affecting one's career are made by others. Social science concepts, theories and empirical findings can be used to develop a relatively rational approach to career planning.