You can change the size of your chat list to make it easier for you to use.
To resize your chat list:
- At the bottom of your chat list, select Options next to Add Contact.
- Choose the size of your chat list by selecting Tiny, Small, Medium, or Large.
If you'd like to minimize your chat list -- just click Chat (or Online friends in orkut) at the top of your chat list.
You can also turn off the chat list entirely in Gmail and iGoogle. Note: Doing so will sign you out of chat unless you are signed in with another client.