How I Became a Microsoft MVP: Tips and Insights

Summary

This video from Tech Talk 365 diverges from its usual Microsoft Dynamics 365 focus to discuss the Microsoft MVP program. The host explains what the MVP program is, its benefits such as recognition, access to Microsoft product teams, and free subscriptions, and how one can become a Microsoft MVP. Tips for aspiring MVPs include identifying a passion area, consistently sharing knowledge, and building a personal brand. The video concludes with an unboxing of the host's MVP award kit, showcasing the physical award and a ring, and a unique lava stone award from the host's company, emphasizing community support in achieving this recognition.

Takeaways

• 🏆 The Microsoft MVP (Most Valuable Professional) program is a prestigious recognition awarded by Microsoft to individuals who significantly contribute to the Microsoft ecosystem.
• 📄 MVPs receive a personalized recognition letter from Microsoft, which can serve as a valuable reference for career advancement.
• 🤝 MVPs gain direct access to collaborate with Microsoft product teams, allowing them to ask questions, learn more about products, and receive special meeting invites and preview access.
• 💼 MVPs are invited to various Microsoft events, sometimes with travel support provided, offering opportunities for physical participation and networking.
• 🏅 The MVP award kit includes a physical award and a ring, with the ring being renewed annually to commemorate the MVP status.
• 🔑 Technical subscriptions as part of the MVP benefits include free access to Microsoft Visual Studio Enterprise, Office 365, and LinkedIn Premium, enhancing continuous learning and skill development.
• 🏢 MVP recognition can lead to internal awards and recognition within one's organization, potentially increasing visibility and career opportunities.
• 🔍 There is no fixed path to becoming an MVP; it involves a combination of passion, hard work, and contributions to the community, often through consistent creation of high-quality technical content.
• 📈 Building a strong personal brand through consistent and high-quality content creation can attract the attention of the MVP community and Microsoft employees, potentially leading to a nomination.
• 🌟 Staying focused on a specific category and demonstrating expertise and passion in that area can increase the chances of being recognized as an MVP.

Q & A

What is the Microsoft MVP program?

The Microsoft MVP program stands for Microsoft Most Valuable Professionals, a prestigious recognition awarded by Microsoft to individuals for their significant contributions to the Microsoft ecosystem.

What are some of the benefits of being a Microsoft MVP?

Benefits include a recognition letter, access to Microsoft product teams, invitations to events with travel support, an award kit, a ring for each year of achievement, and free subscriptions to Microsoft products like Visual Studio Enterprise Edition and Office 365.

How can one become a Microsoft MVP?

There is no specific role or steps publicly outlined by Microsoft. However, one can follow the journeys of existing MVPs, identify a passion area within the Microsoft ecosystem, consistently share knowledge through blogs, videos, or community engagement, and eventually be nominated by a Microsoft employee or another MVP.

What is the importance of consistency in becoming a Microsoft MVP?

Consistency is key as it helps in building a repository of high-quality content, establishing a personal brand, and attracting the attention of the Microsoft community, which can lead to recognition and potential nomination for the MVP award.

Why is it recommended to focus on one specific category when aiming to become a Microsoft MVP?

Focusing on one category allows an individual to become an expert in that area, show deep passion, and increase the chances of being recognized by Microsoft and the community for contributions in that specific field.

How does the speaker plan to help others become Microsoft MVPs?

The speaker offers to collaborate with those who focus on Microsoft business applications, particularly finance and operations, by evaluating and promoting their content to his audience, thus helping them gain more visibility and traffic.

What is included in the Microsoft MVP award kit?

The award kit includes a heavy, thick award with the Microsoft MVP logo and a ring for the year of achievement. The speaker also received a unique award from his company made of lava stone, representing the Icelandic origin of his employer.

What does the speaker suggest documenting during the MVP journey?

The speaker suggests documenting all contributions, including the impact on the community, likes, comments, impressions, and traffic generated by blogs or videos, as this can serve as evidence during the nomination process.

How does the speaker's channel focus on Microsoft Dynamics 365?

The speaker's channel is dedicated exclusively to Microsoft Dynamics 365 for finance and operations, making it a valuable resource for those looking to learn and contribute in that specific area.

What is the significance of the lava stone award from the speaker's company?

The lava stone award signifies the company's Icelandic heritage and represents an innovative and meaningful recognition of the speaker's achievement as a Microsoft MVP.