The best way to conduct research is to break it down into three manageable steps. Search out information from the Internet, the library's Business Section, such as business directories, periodicals, trade journals, 'business trends' articles, and newspapers from a number of cities. Attend association meetings, conventions, job fairs, chamber of commerce events, business and networking breakfasts, brunches, lunches and dinners. Public companies provide annual reports for free. All you have to do is call and ask for one.
Stockbrokers are always helpful sources.
Just be sure to contact them after the market closes. Talk to everyone you meet and tell them you are in a job search. Let them know what industries you are interested in, along with any companies you are looking for, and ask if they know of anyone with whom you should be speaking. Select information that is pertinent and relevant to your career objectives. Start with names, addresses and key contacts.