An instant messaging client application is provided that receives requests to
initiate instant messaging conversations and, in response to the requests, displays
a notification window. The notification window includes information that may allow
a user to decide whether or not the user would like to participate in the instant
messaging conversation. The notification window is displayed gradually and removed
gradually. The notification window contains an indication that another instant
messaging user would like to initiate an instant messaging conversation and may
include an identification of the remote user. The notification window also contains
a description of the topic for the requested instant messaging conversation. The
instant messaging client application may also display a notification window each
time an instant message is received from a remote user and the application window
is in a non-visible or non-active window.
