Disclosed herein are systems, methods, and non-transitory computer-readable storage media for accomplishing a virtual call on hold. A client communication device, such as a telephone, smartphone, or computer, receives a notification of a communication session to which the user is invited, and establishes a relationship with the communication session. Alternatively, a server associated with the communication session can establish the relationship with the client communication device. Then, the communication device can present an indication of the relationship with the communication session for a duration of the communication session, such that the user can join the communication session at will via a communication channel, and such that the communication channel is not occupied by the communication session unless or until the user joins the communication session. The communication session can be a conference call, video conference, a multi-modal chat wherein multiple users communicate via different modalities.