Track both delivery metrics and team health metrics. High output with declining satisfaction is a warning sign. Show that you monitor both and act on the combination.
Look for: a balance of output metrics (delivery velocity, quality) and input metrics (team satisfaction, retention, growth), regular pulse surveys, 1:1 feedback, and using data to identify trends rather than make reactive decisions. Best candidates discuss the limitations of metrics and when qualitative signals matter more.
Tests analytical leadership. Leaders who only track delivery ignore team health. Those who only track satisfaction may not deliver results. The best leaders balance both and use data to spot problems early.