Could Anyone Lend Me A Hand With This Networking Strategy, Please?

I am changing my job search strategy and am going to be reaching out to people prior to applying to a position in order to learn about the job, company and the people I would be working with. When

My Action Plan
I would probably reach out, then if they don't reply submit the application, and follow up again. In this way if they respond soon and we connect they may be willing to act as a reference. If I submit before they reply but they end up replying, at least the application hopefully they can help out if they want.

Any ideas on the following 3 points'?

1. Is this strategy too aggressive or could be seen as unprofessional?
2. How should I bring up that I am applying or going to apply for a position at their firm. ( Not in e-mail.)
3. When we talk before applying, would it come off as too aggressive by asking them if I could write their name as a reference?