Classic Shades Painting Co.

Yefim Skomorovsky: A Broader Perspective

By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter

SAN FRANCISCO — Born and raised in Ukraine, Yefim Skomorovsky moved to the United States shortly after reaching adulthood. Nearly 30 years later, he says living in two different parts of the world has given him a broader perspective not only in life, but in his career as well. “I enrolled in a painting apprenticeship when I was 14 years old, and after it was over I began working full-time in the industry,” he remembers. “When I was 18, I moved with my family to the U.S., where I got into another painting apprenticeship. I think being formally trained in both European and American painting methods has given me an advantage in terms of knowledge and perspective.”

Today, as owner of Classic Shades Painting Co., Yefim says his favorite part of his job is making customers happy. “I make sure my clients get what they pay for and are truly satisfied with the results. I always give 110 percent, and that effort pays off in the form of high customer satisfaction.”

As a resident of San Francisco (where he lives with his wife, Natasha, and their children, Brianna and Michael), Yefim spends much of his free time enjoying the diverse environments that comprise his local setting. “My family and I love living in the city and exploring different neighborhoods,” he affirms. “However, we also enjoy outdoor activities like camping and fishing. Being in the Bay Area, we’re lucky enough to have both.”

In regard to his professional career, Yefim espouses the importance of customer service. “I was fortunate to recognize many years ago that customer service is the key to a successful business,” he says. “A lot of people can paint, but being able to deliver both a quality job and a positive experience for the customer…that’s an art form. I’m at a point in my career where that’s my main focus.”

When asked the first thing he’d do if he were to retire tomorrow, Yefim says he’d take his family on an extended road trip. “I’ve already done a fair amount of traveling abroad, so I’d like to see more of the United States. It’s a beautiful country, and there are many places I haven’t been yet.”

Ask Me Anything!

Q: What kinds of books do you like to read?
A: Much of what I read is business-related. I’m interested in learning new things that I can apply to my business. For example, I just read a book about search engine optimization.

Q: If you could time travel, would you go to the past or the future?
A: The future, just to see what things are like and if we actually start colonizing other planets.

Q: What’s your favorite thing to do on a rainy day?
A: Hang out at home with my family.

Q: What’s your favorite local restaurant?
A: Ella’s in San Francisco.

Q: How do you like your eggs?
A: I get tired of the standard stuff, so I like it when they’re prepared in a unique way because it’s a different experience.