Cold messages to people in my field, do they work? - first time posting

A friend suggested informational chats and I do not know how to ask. I have read a lot of threads here and could not find my exact situation. I want advice, not a job directly. What did you ask?

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.