How do I ask for an informational chat? - 19 weeks in

I sent 9 messages on a professional network and got two replies. I would rather hear the honest version than the polite one. I want advice, not a job directly. What did you ask?

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

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