How to become an MVP

 

Ever wonder how to become a Microsoft Most Valuable Professional? Lisa Anderson, a Microsoft community program manager (CPM) for the central region of the United States, explained what she looks for recently at That Conference 2016, a summer camp for geeks, when she sat down with Channel 9’s Seth Juarez. She provided some valuable insight into the process and the qualities that stand out in exceptional community leaders.

“The most important qualities for being an MVP are impact and passion,” Lisa explained. “If you have a lot of passion it will likely translate into far-reaching impact in the community.”

“The first step is to think about why you want to become an MVP—is it because you’re already doing amazing work in the community and you’d like recognition? Then think about what your impact is in the community and start spreading the word about who you are and what you love to do,” she said.

The chances are very good you’ll find Microsoft MVP CPMs like Lisa out in the community—they’re located around the world. Introduce yourself! And get the conversation started.

Or, you can nominate yourself—or someone else—for the MVP Award at the MVP Award website.

If you’re an MVP, please take a moment to add your advice!

Comments

• Anonymous
  September 30, 2016
  Nice video - So you actually do provide feedback? Or is that dependant on region?
  • Anonymous
    October 04, 2016
    The comment has been removed
• Anonymous
  September 30, 2016
  A few weeks ago, a question about becoming an MVP appeared on a TechNet forum. These are the thoughts I posted:If your goal is to become an MVP, stick with it and emulate those who are successful. But do not make your focus all about the MVP. Focus on helping others - building a community - improving yourself. If you are awarded an MVP, awesome! If not, you will get a ton of experience and get share your knowledge with many others. Either way, you win!
  • Anonymous
    September 30, 2016
    Thanks, Joseph!
  • Anonymous
    October 01, 2016
    It's a great point Joseph but how do I know what I am doing is helping others? View count on articles/blogs/wikis and download rates of projects is the metric here I guess?
    • Anonymous
      October 03, 2016
      @BlobEater: Those metrics do help but I don't think it is all about having huge page views. Personally, I spend a lot of time helping 1:1 with people. Answering forum questions, mentoring, even getting on a video conference/call every now and then when someone has a very odd problem.
      • Anonymous
        October 07, 2016
        Great point Joseph_Moody!!"If you are awarded an MVP, awesome! If not, you will get a ton of experience and get share your knowledge with many others. Either way, you win!"
• Anonymous
  September 30, 2016
  I agree with Joseph, the most important is helping others and, with that, you are helping yourself to become a better. You build community, networking and learn a lot.The MVP is a great and beautiful gift, but I think that shouldn't be a goal.