How do I chat with uploaders on Ares?

[Naughty]

I know it's possible because I have had others open a channel directly to me and we have chatted but I can't seem to do the same in return. I want to chat directly with other uploaders to browse their library and share. Please don't tell me there is a Chat bar in the command bar. I know this but for whatever reason mine won't work and when I click on it it simply says "retrieving list" but never does so and seems to be stuck in a loop. What am I doing wrong if anything and/or do I need to update (if so how and it has to be free). If you can provide a coherent answer and perhaps a link if needed I will give you 10pts. Thanks.