Can't say I ever expected to say this, but as of October 1st I'm a SQL Server MVP. A nice milestone in my career and cause for mild celebration.

Many people ask about the MVP program and what it takes to get in. I can't tell you much because I don't know. But what I can do is tell you about the work I did that seemed to lead to the award:

• I was nominated by someone I know and respect (and was not either of my business partners). I don't know if that has more impact than a non-MVP doing the nomination or not. Note that I'm not recommending you seek out MVP's to nominate you!

• I did 12 presentations over the past year, ranging from Code Camps to SQLSaturday to visits to Birmingham & Charlotte

• I lead the Orlando SQL Group

• I wrote 20 articles for SQLServerCentral

• I started SQLSaturday as a new event concept, lead the one in Orlando, and provided some behind the scenes coaching to events in Jacksonville and Tampa

• I post almost every day here, though not always about SQL

• I've been using SQL Server for just over 10 years, going all the way back to SQL 6.5

• I manage a SQL Server training business

• I spoke at PASS last year (and years prior as well)

Things I didn't do:

• Frequent posts anywhere. I commonly post to replies to my articles on SQLServerCentral.com and to editorials posted there, but my workload requires me to ration my time, it's been a number of years since I've been super active in forums)

• I didn't do any webcasts or virtual appearances

• Didn't write a book (though I will sooner or later)

I have no idea if I cleared the bar by an inch or a mile. I think clearly there are a few different paths to the award, but all require some technical expertise and community interaction. My suggestion is that rather than focus on how to become an MVP, focus on building your skills and marketing them. Marketing is hard for most of us IT types, but it's a necessary skill. Time spent on marketing is not wasted whether you become an MVP or not, but if you just chase the MVP you may not being doing the things that open other doors.