I have several niche websites and, in an effort build backlinks, I wanted to start up a directory. I've never done this before, so I need advice. Question 1 -- I've read that SEO experts believe that Google takes IP address into account when checking sites that are linked together. I think this means that if I have multiple sites hosted by the same people, Google will not look as favorably on the backlinks. So..... should I put my new directory site up under my paid hosting account.... or should I get a free hosting account for my new directory? If I should go with the free hosting-- who should I go through? Question 2 -- What's the best strategy for getting the directory built up as fast as possible? Obviouslly, it will start as a PR0. I know I can build it to a PR4 or PR5 because my other content sites are PR4 and PR5. But how do I convince people to link to a PR0 directory right after launch? Question 3 -- Any other advice for a putting up a directory site? Thanks.
There are many articles and blog posts on the topic at the directory in my sig. Do a search for the term directory in the search box and all the related articles will come up, then check in the blog for the posts there.