Best methods to promote a directory ?

Hello everyone,
I am about to launch another directory with a custom design :
The name is InspireDirectory.

I would like to know the best methods to increase PR/backlinks of my directory.
I am going to :

1. Submit the directory link to 1000-2000 free directories.
2. Submit to search engines
3. Sponsor free wordpress and phpld templates to increase backlinks.

Are there other methods by which i can bring my directory to the level of AliveDirectory or AvivaDirectory ?
Thank you and i apologize if this has been asked before.

 

No problem promotion & marketing 365/24/7 and investing its very hard to do but it can still be done

 

There are a lot of ways to promote your directory for free...

I created a list of 33 Killer Ways to Increase Your Directory Traffic for Free

 

Submit at the quality directories and develop and work on right keywords.

 

Do the banners thing...

yes its better then links for traffic

 

-- Submit to paid directories for better SERPs and PR
-- Buy banners/text ads on webmaster forums/blogs/sites
-- Buy signatures and avatars from webmaster forums like DP, NP etc.