Every year in early fall we take a trip. We recently came back from two weeks in the south of France.

We started in Nice (on the Côte d’Azur), then spent week two in the countryside to celebrate a friend’s birthday. We all stayed in a big Airbnb together like the old days.

Unfortunately, on the very first evening, one old friend (my college roommate) stumbled off a bridge and fell over 10 feet, hitting the slope and just missing the water.

He had to be airlifted to a hospital in Marseille. Luckily, he only broke his pelvis, though the trauma to his back means he’ll be stuck in French rehab for a month before he can board a plane home.

It just goes to show—the longer you live, the more craziness your experience.

When we finally celebrated my friend’s birthday, it was around a glorious round dining table. (photo)

Round tables not only carry huge symbolism, they have real impact on how you feel and communicate.

Consider these 5 leadership lessons that literally come from the shape of your table.

1. Shared Power

At my friend’s birthday dinner in France, the round table had no “head.” It reminded me that true influence isn’t about position—it’s about creating space for others to contribute. Power is shared, not imposed.

2. Equal Voice

As you can see from the photo, around that table, no one was hidden—and no one could hide. It pushed everyone into the conversation, even the quieter voices. Leaders should do the same in their meetings.

3. Visibility and Accountability

Looking across the circle, I could see everyone clearly, some were strangers and some were friends. The shape reduced the sidebar or someone checking out. It reinforced how visibility creates accountability and presence.

4. Collaboration Over Hierarchy

The shape itself encourages collaboration. No one sits “above” another, and solutions can flow faster because every perspective is treated front and center.

5. Synergy of Ideas

The conversation bounced easily around the circle—laughter, stories, ideas all building on one another. Leadership at work is about harnessing that same collective wisdom and energy.

Your Challenge: Employ the Round Table

Whether at home for dinner, or at work for a meeting, consider replacing your rectangular table with a round one.

And if that is not realistic, then take the following challenge (at work): Lead the next meeting as if you were sitting at a round table. What will you do differently?

And if you have a round table story please share with me.

Let’s get rolling!!

Regards, Jeffrey Scott

P.S. In our high-impact peer groups we are all equals, in this together, learning from each and sharing our experiences.

Set up a meeting with us right now to explore how our peer groups and consulting programs will change your business and ultimately your life!