HBS : Recommendation Essays ???

[wilderness]

Hi,

I just went through the details of HBS application requirements an I am somewhat surprised to see that there are asking for 3 essays of 250 words each from the recommender along with other things.

My recommenders have known me well and I think they will give me a good recommendation but none of them has enough time to write 3 essays of 250 words each for me.
I am sure my case is not a new one because senior managers are generally very busy. Also my manager ias not very happy to see me leave, even if for MBA.

• 1) Did somebody else face the same problem ?
  
  2) I am planning to apply to 5 schools and at this rate (3 essays per school), I really dont see a way how to convince my manager to do this for me.
  
  Any ideas

HBS requirements for MBA class of 2011 Recommendations must be completed online. The form includes the following three essay response questions, along with other types of questions.

• Please comment on the context of your interaction with the applicant. How long have you known the applicant and in what connection? If applicable, briefly describe the applicant's role in your organization. (250-word limit)
  
  Please describe the most important piece of constructive feedback you have given the applicant. Please detail the circumstances and the applicant's response. (250-word limit)
  
  Please make additional statements about the applicant's performance, potential, or personal qualities you believe would be helpful to the MBA Admissions Board. (250-word limit)

[mkb]

250 words cannot be considered an essay. A recommendation is usually around 750 words anyway (1 single-spaced page). Don't worry.

Also, your manager could use the Harvard recommendation for all 5 of your business schools, with a little bit of rewording.