hiding programs when they start up with the mac

[hank smith]

hello currently I have mail and skype set to log on when the mac boots up
there a way to have it run in the backround with out me having to hit command h 
on each of the applications that come up eg mail and skype?
if this can not be done its no biggy just a bit anoying having to hide the apps 
manually
please let me know a way if there is one
thanks
73
hank smith
amiture radio call sign:
KE7IEF
email:
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
msn messenger:
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
aim:
hanksmith5
skype:
hanksmith5