Interactive is the one thing that sets apart gambling sites that have players keep coming back, that is my experience anyway. so yeah, nothing like chat to start things of. You will also find that the same players generally play at all the casinos, so if you see the same names, then you know you've done a good job with the regulars.

No need to spend too much time promoting, I think forum ads are very quick and reliable for immediate players, but signature campaigns long term do well. Both show your willingness to invest time and money.