I want to start a forum..

I want to start a forum. But what should I got for? General Discussions? Communities?

What?

 

What topics do you like?

I would make forums upon the subjects that you like.. Computers, internet... sports.. whatever.

This is up to you.

 

General Discussions maybe.

 

Well then i'm not sure what you're asking.. If that's the forum you want.. Then that answers your question. Make an 'off-topic' forum.. general discussion, etc.

 

How do I advertise a forum like that?

 

How do you plan to promote it, gain posts, and attract new members? You could try post fusion by admin fusion if you need help with this.

 

A very good way to advertise your forum is to post on other forums in your niche, with a signature link to your forum. Or you could hold a posting competition to get it started, for quality posts. Don't keep running competitions though or they'll be the only reason your members stay.

I would also suggest paying for some posting in the services forum here to get it started. No-one wants to post in an empty forum.

 

Start something you care for or have expertise in.

 

I agree with franky, start something you know a lot about too. So you can be an active member, get your friends involved. Buy some paid posts to get started (check the BST) no one wants to join an empty forum. After you get a few hundred posts then i would recommend posting on other forums with a sig link, depending on niche, send a bulletin to myspace or hi5 or any other socialnetworking site. use stumbleupon, digg and get some press releases.
Good Luck, its not easy with a forum....

 

If you have a special interest it would be easier for you to moderate and contribute to the forum yourself.