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

I sent 11 messages on a professional network and got two replies. I would rather hear the honest version than the polite one. 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.