Circle of influence

Measured by the number of applicants – is the big number ok meaning your term was successful, that your term was leadership and you inspired people, or that tey are pissed off and want to repair what you destroyed or its not connected at all? How about quality, your contact with these people will but also knowledge to ensure continuity? How to assess this? Is there any formula? What to think about that?
No idea but this no very important point and topic in my head.