How to Become vExpert: Everything You Should Know

I’m the vExpert! Yes, I can finally say that, I was awarded the VMware vExpert title for the first time. The first star in the collection, certainly not the last. I am very proud of this achievement and would like to thank VMware and vCommunity for inviting me to such a great community. Being recognized as VMware vExpert is a great achievement that demonstrates my dedication to the community by blogging and sharing knowledge about VMware technology. As VMware vExpert 2023, I joined a prestigious group of professionals who have shown commitment to the development of VMware virtualization and cloud technologies.

But what is it all about, what are the requirements, what you have to do to become a vExpert? In this article, I would like to share with you the requirements for vExpert and how to apply.

What is the vExpert program?

The vExpert program is a community recognition initiative by VMware that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated significant contributions to the VMware community. The program is open to anyone who is passionate about VMware products and services, and who is actively engaged in sharing knowledge, expertise, and feedback with the community.

The vExpert program is a global community with over 1,500 members. The program is designed to recognize individuals who have gone above and beyond daily work to help others in the community, whether it is by writing blog articles, publications, speaking at conferences, book writing, scripting/coding, recording videos, podcasting etc.

In short, a vExpert is someone who goes beyond their daily work and wants to give something back to the community. vExpert is a person who wants to share knowledge and experience.

The vExpert title is valid for one year. This means that in order to have a vExpert title continuously, you have to keep going, do all the things a vExpert should do and apply every year.

Benefits of being a vExpert

Receiving the VMware vExpert award comes with a multitude of benefits that can greatly enhance your professional development:

  • By being recognized as a vExpert, you will gain access to a community of over 1,500 vExperts, providing opportunities for networking and sharing of valuable information related to VMware technologies and partner products.
  • As a vExpert, you will have the opportunity to expand your knowledge on VMware technologies and partner solutions.
  • Becoming a vExpert can also help boost your online presence and blog traffic through various advocacy campaigns.
  • One of the most significant benefits of becoming a vExpert is the access to one-year VMware licenses for home labs for almost all products and some partner products. This allows you to gain practical experience and build your skills in a home lab environment.
  • You can apply for vExpert BU Lead subprograms that offer direct access to VMware Business Units, which can lead to valuable insights into new products and technologies.
  • Private VMware and VMware Partner sessions that can provide you with a deeper understanding of the industry.
  • Receiving gifts and awards from VMware and VMware Partners.
  • Exclusive invitations to the vExpert celebration parties at both VMware Explore U.S. and VMware Explore Europe with VMware CEO.
  • Invite to the VMware Advocacy Platform to share your content with thousands of vExperts and VMware employees.
  • Permission to use the vExpert logo on cards, website, etc. for one year.
  • Featured in a public vExpert online directory.
  • Finally, vExperts can join private Slack channels for vExpert.

Overall, becoming a vExpert can be an incredible opportunity to enhance your skills, expand your network, and advance your career in the VMware community.

How to apply?

First of all you have to determine which path to choose. There are several paths:

  • Evangelist (my path) – this path includes book authors, bloggers, tool builders, public speakers, VMTN contributors, and other IT professionals who share their knowledge and passion with others.
  • Customer – this path is for leaders who evangelize VMware.
  • Partner – for employees of VMware partner companies.
  • VMUG & VCDX – this path is for VMUG Leaders or those who are VCDX certified.

More details on application paths can be found here.

After specifying the path, go to this website, create an account and fill out all the fields on the Apply page that correspond to your application path.

Another very important thing is to contact vExpert PRO. Check out this directory and choose someone. PROs are localized in many countries and speak many languages. vExpert PRO will help you in the application process.

The application form is now open all the time except during voting periods. This means you can update your application all year round whenever you need it. I highly recommend following @vExpert and visiting the official vExpert blog. This will help you keep up to date with any news, changes or voting periods. I also recommend to follow all the #vExpert and #vExpertPRO on Twitter and LinkedIn.

Conclusion

The vExpert program is a great way to showcase your expertise and contributions to the VMware community. Being a vExpert comes with many benefits, including access to VMware products, recognition, and networking opportunities. If you are passionate about VMware products and services and want to give back to the community, consider applying for the vExpert program.

Thank you for reading! Here are some links you may be interested in:

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