Getting into an MBA program in a prestigious school such as Harvard or Stanford can be tough. But for you, it has been a lifelong dream. You've already achieved a 4 year degree, but you can see where even now you are backed into a corner. You can see yourself stuck in the same salary and in the same types of jobs for years to come. You are ready for a change.

Acquiring your MBA can be the next best step for you to further your education and further your future. And learning about business--and getting your MBA--is the fastest and most enjoyable way to climb up that educational ladder. If you've looked into the application process, then you probably know all about the online application forms, the GMAT testing and the requirements you'll need to get in. But what's this about a recommendation letter? Why do you need one, and who do you pick to write one for you?

The truth is, before a prestigious college like Harvard or Stanford can admit you to their programs, they need to know all about you. They want to know if the people you currently work with like you. They want to know about your work ethic, your drive to succeed and how far you are willing to go to make your dreams happen. The best way to gain this information is through MBA recommendation letters submitted by a boss, manager or someone high up in your company who has experienced working with you.

MBA recommendation letters should not be taken lightly, as the university will carefully evaluate your letters and decide if you have more or less potential than the other people who are applying. That is why you need to find just the right people to write the recommendations for you. So, just who is the right person to write this letter for you?

Great candidates for writing MBA recommendation letters are those who are high enough in the corporate chain so that it doesn't appear that your recommendation is being written by one of your peers or simply a friend. You'll want someone who can highlight your strengths and weaknesses as well as show what kind of potential you have to succeed out there in the business world. Universities don't want a bunch of "fluff" but rather solid examples that you are the type of person they want in their program.

Also, keep in mind that you'll want your recommendation letters to reflect many of the points you have made in your essays. The closer these tie in together--without seeming obvious--the university will be able to make the connection between you and potential success. There is nothing wrong with having a list of highlighted topics for both you and your recommendation writers to focus on as you complete the MBA application process.

Your recommendation writer should be encouraged to focus on your leadership potential, your willingness to achieve success and to be a part of the business community. If you put the time and effort into acquiring some well-focused and in-depth recommendation letters from respected members of the management community, your chances of getting accepted into a prestigious MBA program will increase dramatically.