Cold messages to people in my field, do they work?

A friend suggested informational chats and I do not know how to ask. I am in Omaha, in case local advice matters. I worry about bothering people. Did any turn into leads?

I wrote three short lines: who I am, why them and a small ask for fifteen minutes. About one in four said yes.

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