Sometimes a phone call is more then a phone call

Video and tele conferencing is playing an increasing role in the work I do. While all my interactions are domestic and generally in the New York area there has not been a huge amount of attention played to how to accommodate people of varying cultures and backgrounds. This said recently a person in my organization has come under scrutiny when the person took a call with some key stake holders while they were on the subway. No one could hear each other and the call left the stakeholders concerned in the new leadership. This said the person also should have been informed of the expectations for such a serious call and the situation may have unfolded better. I have and going forward will always try and air on the side of professionalism when in these situations. dressing appropriately, speaking clearly and creating an environment thats hospitable to the communication is always important. Also I believe its fair to have my own expectations challenged. If I were to be on a skype call and another person calling in is wearing a Hawaiian shirt and shorts my initial thought may be to not take them seriously but this may just be a cultural difference and as long as the content of the meeting is good I would trust the ability of the person I'm working with.