How to become MVP?

Michael,

As far as I know, the qualifications for MVP designation are somewhat subjective. In other words, there is no specific list where if you fulfill it to the letter you will be offered an MVP. For example, while forum participation is a heavy influence, there is no official minimum number of posts to my knowledge. Thus I do not believe that speaking is an absolute requirement but just one of those things that is necessarily going to work in your favor as it increases your 'reach' and your credibility. There is a team of individuals at Microsoft which evaluates each person's credentials on a case-by-case basis.

I know there is a handful of MVPs on this community so let's see if they can add some specifics.

Thanks,
Lori

The following page is the best to start with for getting information on Microsoft's MVP award: http://mvp.support.microsoft.com/

Not that the MVP status is an award given by Microsoft to recognize people who are influential in the community in regard to a Microsoft product. As menioned, answering questions in forums is very visibile and very influential and thus one of the things Microsoft recognizes. Other things such as working with a local user group, speaking (as you mentioned), and writing articles are also helpful factors for being recognized.

Of course, doing all these things alone is not enough! Your accomplishments and name need to also be brought to the attention of those at Microsoft that do the MVP awards. Forums such as this one and some of the other Jupiterweb forums (Codeguru & VBForums) are visited by Microsoft people. Additionally, we tend to nominate those that are extremely helpful, thus also bringing names to the attention of the right people at Microsoft.

Of course, for the official details, take a look at the link above.

Brad!
Microsoft MVP - Visual C++