Recommendations count as much as your essays if not more so. I recommend starting here - brainstorm ideas, anecdotes and coach your recommenders
ERASMUS RECOMMENDATION QUESTIONS
How long and in what capacity have you known the candidate? *Maximum Length all questions - 375 chars - quite brief
What is your opinion of the candidate's motivation and suitability for a career in senior management?
What do you consider as his or her principal qualities and weaknesses?
Please comment on the candidate's interpersonal skills (Such as performance in a team environment with peers, subordinates and supervisors).
Please add any further remarks on the candidate that you consider relevant (Additional pages may be attached).