This is one option, and I'm sure it works for some people, but I prefer to overdeliver for the trusted contacts that I actually have then get introductions slow

This is one option, and I'm sure it works for some people, but I prefer to overdeliver for the trusted contacts that I actually have then get introductions slowly over time to more important people. Not my only tactic, but by far the best one. I don't really care about status or wealth, but I've had calls with multiple billionaires and world renowned subject area experts. None of these were from cold calling or cold emailing. Honestly, I've found cold contacting to be such a slog that it demoralizes me more than the meagre amount of work it brings in. Sometimes the front door works and its the only option for some circumstance or another, but if you have enough time and enough of a buffer there's always a better way. Even something as simple as finding, say, the person's philanthropic foundation and showing up to a $500 fundraising dinner is far, far more effective. But for some, the sales grind works just fine and they like the fact that they can set up funnels and process around it. I prefer a more fortuitous, organic life. I find it more fulfilling and authentic.