Most would agree that leaders must take responsibility for their teams and at times may suffer slings and arrows of wrong doings regardless of personal responsibility.  Leaders are taught to remain open minded, seek first to understand and avoid defensive behavior.  We know that leaders go on the offense, and some may argue that leaders in the hunt are always on the offensive.

This is a question I pose to the growing community of developing leaders.  Do leaders play defense?  If so, how can they do it effectively?  How do they inspire a team effort?  Please feel free to elaborate…