Seasoned pastors know that for every meeting there are actually three meetings. There is the meeting before the meeting, the meeting after the meeting, and the meeting. What happens in the meetings before and after the meeting in the hall, in the parking lot, and on the telephone is more important than what happens in the meeting.

Coaching some young pastors recently brought this to mind. One pastor in particular was perplexed that decisions made in meetings he led were decided much differently than he had planned. When asked what influencers he talked to beforehand, he answered, "None."

John Maxwell tells great stories about "God and Claude." Claude was the primary influencer in his first church. John wisely spent time with him before board meetings and discussed what needed to happen. When John won over Claude, he won over the board, and he got things done. Talk to God and talk to Claude.

Every church has a Claude or a Claudette. This is true in churches of all sizes. Wise pastors learn to influence the influencers. They also know that if they can’t influence those influencers, their pastoral positions hold little real authority when decision time comes.

A well-known pastor in Houston discussed this in a conference at his church. He talked about influencing influencers leading up to major decisions. He said, "That’s why God made telephones!" Telephones, coffee shops, and lunch tables are prime venues for influencing others. Pastors should never lunch alone.

As great as an idea may be, it will likely receive strong questioning the first time leaders hear it. This is appropriate. A great idea floated at the wrong time or in the wrong way will die a great death. Never fear hard questions. However, develop sturdy allies who can join you in answering those questions when decision time arrives.

After decisions are made, take time to touch base with the greatest ally and the most vocal critic. Continue working the process to influence leaders toward consensus. Some decisions don’t stay made. Some are re-decided for all the wrong reasons. Consequences can be disastrous.

Start up, follow up and follow through on the necessary work of influencing the influencers.