Recruiting Sims in Batuu!!

I finally found the option, buried several levels deep in the Friendly menu. 

The options are alphabetized, "R" for recruit citizen will naturally be towards the end of the More Choices option.

My problem is the other sims do not know me well enough to join me.

I suppose I just need to talk to them more; but my sim is socially awkward and that is screwing me over right now >.<

I was finally able to recruit other sims in Batuu after having a lv1 Charisma score and having a moderate amount of friendly interactions with them before; otherwise I was getting "No way! I dont even know you!" 
My sim was socially awkward so this mission was actually a challenge for him.

Hope this helps