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

I sent 18 messages on a professional network and got two replies. I do not usually post, so bear with me. 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.

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