Recruiting is like dating. You find someone you like. Maybe a couple different people. Talk to them a bit. Maybe go on a date or two. But, through it all, the thread of communication from both sides indicates the level of interest.
This brings me to the second recruiting rule:
COMMUNICATION IS KEY.
For many teams, and for many elite players, building a recruiting relationship is a multi-year endeavor. It starts with the team being visible in the community/city/state/area where they’re trying to recruit. By being visible, the player(s) should become aware of the team in a way that’s different than fandom; i and then making that recruit feel wanted.