is that possible?  I know a recruit who gives you the "backup" story can be had with enough visits.  But if a recruit says no to that initial phone call, can you use visits to get him to a backup status and then to eventually list you?  I know it's dangerous to do this at D3 with limited budgets--I'm asking more out of curiosity (e.g., has it ever been done?) than for practical use...

Nope.

It's not possible.  I learned the hard way.

I'm with tkimble, I learned it the hard way as well many seasons ago.

hilarious, ike!

For some people (myself included), the hard way is the only way they can learn anything. 

I've never had a no turn into a yes, but if you get a no and then a cycle or two later that player re-contacts you, then they can be had and usually for far less the hassle than trying to persuade that "backup" player to come over to your side.