A Pumper Discussion Forum member, “Western,” recently posted his strong feelings about haulers who use “septic slogans’’ on their trucks to promote their businesses. You know what he’s talking about. I don’t have to repeat the most common attempts at bathroom humor some contractors put on their rigs.

Western, who works in southern Idaho, is steadfastly critical of using these slogans, stating his case with eloquence and humor. Bottom line: He thinks the slogans degrade industry professionalism, and it’s no secret I agree with him wholeheartedly. I’ve written columns over the years urging contractors to remove off-color slogans from their trucks, advertising and websites.

Take a look at the thread started by Western under the “business’’ category of the Pumper Discussion Forum and add your voice to the debate. Click here to join in: http://forums.colepublishing.com/showthread.php?t=356

To give you Western’s argument in a nutshell, here is an excerpt from his entry:

“How many of you would take your wife and kids to a doctor whose tagline was, "Near death's door? We'll pull you through!" or "It's a germy job, but someone's gotta do it!" That's fine for doctors to laugh over while having lunch, but it would kill their business no doubt. What makes our industry think that we need to be less professional than a doctor?

“I would simply like to see more professionalism in this industry, and would like to put out a call to all septic companies to please, use your head when you are trying to decide how to market your businesses. I for one want the public to take our industry seriously and to view us as valuable, necessary professionals.’’

I’m excited to see a number of pumpers answer Western’s call for greater professionalism. As always, if you have comments about this blog, send them to me at editor@pumper.com. I’ll share your opinions right here.