When you ask someone you do not know for something, it is sales...not networking. Here's how to network effectively.
Reaching out to people you do not know and asking them for something is not "networking," it's "sales." (And a bad form of sales at that).
I'm frequently asked how to network effectively.
The key is you have to be a partner, not a taker.
You have to offer something. You cannot be only interested in what you want.
You can give your own time, share your expertise, or even just share an authentically curious ear. Many people are excited to share what they do when asked an honest question about their work.