Ok, so I found the console codes to turn any NPC into a companion by making them like you and giving them command dialog. It works great.

The problem is, it only works with NPCs that have dialog topics. If you use it on, saw, a friendly bandit, you won't be able to tell them to follow you because you can't open dialog. Press Use on them, and they will just smile and ask what you need.

Is there some way to add conversation topics to any NPC with the console? I've added myself to the Forsworn faction and want an easy way to put together a raiding party. Has anyone ever heard of a simple Follow Me spell or the like?

The only way you could do this is with the CK. I suspect it would require a great deal of scripting. Nevertheless, there are examples already in game. There's a quest out of Morthal where you head a posse to take out a master vampire... only all but one head back for ale once you get there. The Blades will accompany you to kill a dragon, so that's three drones in addition to a proper follower, if you have one.