Cold messages to people in my field, do they work? - 12 months and counting

A friend suggested informational chats and I do not know how to ask. It has been weighing on me all week. I want advice, not a job directly. What did you ask?

Do not apologise for asking. Most people remember someone who helped them.

Follow up with a thank-you and a short update. One of my chats led to a referral a month later.