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

I sent 4 messages on a professional network and got two replies. I worked as a paralegal before this. I worry about bothering people. Did any turn into leads?

I asked what they wish they had known at my stage. People enjoy answering that.

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