In English:

Personal service is increasingly important to corporate success

We are living in an age when speed is always of the essence and people are feeling pressured – a reality that forces companies striving for success to stand out from the crowd. "This is why we're setting up an ultra modern service school, the SJ Service Academy. In an age when competition is increasingly stiff, personal contact will become the critical factor in determining which company customers choose," says Olle Lundström, CEO for SJ Service Academy.

From 2010, rail services within Europe will be open to competition. It is, therefore, of utmost importance that SJ provides exemplary service, as good service will become the critical factor and, in the long term, afford SJ more business opportunities.
"But this does not only apply to SJ – companies in other industries must also sharpen up in the face of fiercer competition. Selling a good product at a good price is no longer enough. And neither, as was the case 15 years ago, is the most efficient company the guaranteed winner.
To succeed today, companies have to offer something unique – a warm reception and a good experience. The more digital we become, the more important our personal relations become."

This is why SJ Service Academy is offering training courses not only to SJ's employees but also to external companies. In addition to courses dedicated exclusively to service, the academy is also focusing on courses in sales and management techniques.
"Service, in our world, starts with a heart attack. In other words, we offer service courses at every level – from dealing with a heart attack to customer reception, sales and management.
Our primary motive is to educate and train our customers to be service conscious throughout the entire chain. If we are successful, they will enjoy an increase in revenues. At the end of the day, it's all about the bottom line."

Our ambition is for everything at the SJ Service Academy to live and breathe service and quality – from the courses and the experienced service coaches to the restaurant and conference facility. "The academy should constitute an experience in itself and be a welcoming place from start to finish."

Olle Lundström is CEO for SJ Service Academy. Olle is a marketer and entrepreneur and has, among other things, worked for many years within the experience industry.