Recommendation letters: Need some expert advice!

[MissTee]

I really need some expert advice on recommendation letters! Okay, here is my situation:

I am applying to a few MBA programs for the Fall 2011 school year. I already have in mind who I want to do my recommendations. 2 are my previous bosses from my last two positions & the 3rd (if needed) will be from my Dean at my undergraduate school. But here is where things get tricky...I am currently unemployed due to lay-offs from the last company I worked for and unfortunately my boss was laid off as well. My question is, will it still be okay to ask for a recommendation from him, even though he no longer works for the company either? I had a really good relationship with him, and I know he would be glad to do the letter, but I don't want that counting against me on my application. I've only worked for 2 companies since graduating college in 2005, and while in both positions, I've only had 1 boss, which is why I was going to ask both to do a letter since most apps like for the recs to be from your employer. What should I do?

[jkhousto]

MissTee:
Thanks for your questions. In this economy (and depending on your industry) I bet there are many candidates out there who face similar challenges with being unemployed and possibly having unemployed recommenders. The rule with recommenders is to ask the people who know your work, professional capabilities, and your potential the best. They need not still be working with you or at a company where you both worked.
I hope this helps and best of luck to you,
Jennifer

[MissTee]

@jkhousto Thanks sooo much for your reply! I was really worried about that, being that my last boss was laid off as well. Now that I know that it is okay, I will go ahead and ask him for the recommendation.