This can be done yes, but I suggest it only for folks who already have a 45 and know the people who are Pl'ing them. I love xp'ing in ao2, but out of respect I don't even bother trying to get into a02 groups until I'm 25-30ish where I can actually contribute without dying.

To expand on your step 2, it's always best to message higher level players first before spamming friend adds. I hate all the noobs who just send random friend invites for to me seems like no reason except to expand their friends list.