(Originally published on April 5, 2021 by Microsoft 365 Insider Engagement Team)
As part of our new Insider Spotlight series, we are introducing you to MVPs, creators, and tech leaders who love the Office Insider program.
Tracy van der Schyff
Tracy is a four-time Microsoft MVP winner, Microsoft 365 Coach, international speaker, mentor, and blogger. Her passion lies in empowering others, and therefore training and change management are close to her heart.
"It is about enabling others to serve themselves better, expand their possibilities, increase their capacity to learn, act more effectively, and better design their future," she says.
Tell why you love the Office Insider program.
I truly believe that we shape our own future. Being part of programs that allow us to review and give feedback gives us the opportunity to do exactly that. And, of course, the geeky side of me loves seeing cool things before anyone else.
What is something you’ve created because of Microsoft?
I have so much empathy for people, especially those who normally don’t receive the help they deserve. Because I truly believe that Microsoft can help people achieve more, I had a crazy idea in 2016 to write a blog every day. The topic? All the amazing features in Office 365. My goal was to assist others with free training. I finished this challenge in 2017. Soon after, Microsoft released “Microsoft 365” so, of course, I had to do it again to include Windows tips and tricks. Read more.
Tell us about your journey in tech.
I’d rather call it a roller-coaster ride. I never had formal education and was already working at 15. From receptionist to bookkeeper, to driving school instructress, then art shop owner where I also gave art classes, décor shop owner, designer and manufacturer of kitchens and furniture, eventually systems administrator. Then, Microsoft happened with my entry into SharePoint and 10 years ago Office 365. I’ve had my own company again for 9 years now focusing on consulting and training for Microsoft 365, and I absolutely love my job.
What is one word that best describes how you work?
Chaos, with sprinkles of fairy dust and glitter. If it weren’t for Microsoft, I’d be totally lost. Diagnosed as ADD (ADHD) at a young age I’m happy to say that the tools I use have helped me stop taking meds. Sound strange? Not at all! OneNote keeps me organized and as I use PowerPoint to create all my graphics, it allows me to release “negative energy buildup” all the time while I work.
What movies or books or other forms of art inspire you the most?
How to train your dragon and Brave are my favorite movies. I love pop art, which is probably why I have 101 tattoos.
Which superhero character do you connect with in real life?
Hiccup from ‘How to train your dragon’. I do consider him a superhero, as he did the right things for the right reasons. I’ve always wanted to be from Viking / Scandinavian heritage (who knows) and I do believe in my work I’m a trainer of dragons (vs a slayer as sadly there are many of those too).
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