1 year+ ago... my directory was looking exactly like yours Now you can, 1) add at least a nice free template 2) add some mods 3) promote it a little 4) make it unique, firstly for you, and then if you enjoy working on it, this will be seen be the visitors as well. Also, I recommend to use this directory only for testing/getting used to/etc After I while, or maybe now, get yourself a new brandable domain name...this is the best option as a startup...
don't hesitate to ask for help if you need it. We are a lot of directory owners in here who can give you a hand. Thanks, hyper