How to best "make a connection" during informational interviews

Hi guys:

Was wondering if anyone could provide some tips on how to best make a strong connection with the other side during informational interview/coffee chats with PE professionals (associate/principal level) please? I've had a few of those but I feel that it's a hit or miss. I always research their background and ask them about how they like their experience, what's their typical day to day, culture of the firm etc, but it's not clear to me how I can improve my process systematically. Are there some good questions you guys have used (for alum/non alum coffee chats) please? What's the best way to think about this?

Thanks