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Any job seeker looking for sample resumes usually doesn*t have to look very far.

A multitude of sites today are offering free sample resumes on the internet in addition to the avalanche of books that are released each year touting resume examples. With this kind of information overload it can be quite easy for the unsuspecting job seeker to become mired down in sample resumes, moving from one to the next in their pursuit of the *ultimate* professional resume example that will land them the job of their dreams.

Every book and website has a different twist, a different acclamation to insure you their samples resumes are the absolute best. The truth is that sample resumes, for the most part, do not vary much.

That is not to say there are not certain guidelines and tips a job seeker should follow, but there is not a free resume example in the world that will get you the job you want. Only your skills, experience and determination will land you the job you seek.

Sample resumes do serve a purpose and that is to assist you in placing your information on a resume in the manner that will best market your skills and experience to the employer. In order to do that, you do not need to surf thousands of web pages or study an entire library of books on sample resumes. You simply need to understand the purpose of each of the four basic types of resume and current resume guidelines.

Functional Sample Resumes

In a sample functional resume, the focus is on your skills rather than your work history. This type of format is great for individuals who may not have remained at jobs for long periods of time or for individuals who have held numerous jobs. This type of resume can also work well for individuals who are changing careers and want to shift the focus from their work history and what they may have done in the past to their skills and what they wish to do in the future.

Chronological Sample Resumes

In a chronological resume, the focus is on work history, giving a clear indication of where you have worked and how long you worked there. This type of resume is good for individuals who have had a stable work history and are looking to stay within the same career field.

Combination Same Resumes

In a combination resume, the benefits of the chronological and the functional resumes can be combined in order to emphasize specific transferable skills.

Curriculum Vitae Sample Resumes

A curriculum vitae, or CV resume differs from the chronological and functional resume in that it can be a bit longer and contains information the other two resumes do not such as description of papers written, and related professional and association memberships. This type of resume is geared towards individuals who are applying for work in international firms or in academic fields.

Resume Guidelines

In regards to guidelines, sample resumes usually give the same advice.

• Include an objective statement that is clear, focused and concise.
• Do not include personal information such as marital status and age.
• Focus on accomplishments, not activities.
• Above all, be honest.