How do I ask for an informational chat? (Raleigh)

I sent 16 messages on a professional network and got two replies. This is my first time dealing with any of this. Some people reply with short answers. Did any turn into leads?

Keep everything in writing and save the confirmation numbers. It made the follow-up calls so much easier.

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