Creating Connection in Networking Calls From Complete Nontarget

Incoming analyst at a MM looking to lateral to a BB/EB and have been doing a bit of networking with associates/VPs on teams that have open roles. I went to a complete nontarget so I have to reach out to mostly non-alum. I try to find people on LinkedIn that have some similarities to my background but I feel like most of my calls are relatively uninspiring. I ask specific questions about their role/background and I have a very unique background but most of the people I speak to seem relatively uninterested despite being willing to get on the call. Anecdotally, I've been successful at creating strong networking connections in person but over the phone feels so much more difficult.

Does anyone have pointers for how they were able to create more meaningful connections through networking phone calls? Or advice for converting that initial cold-email phone call into a 1st round interview?