How do I get 1-way backlinks? Most sites want a reciprocal link, don't they? Also, what sites should a forum NOT link to, if any?
A forum should get its own backlinks naturally, you don't need link exchanges. As your popularity grows, people will backlink to threads and such, just like what happens with digital point. The only problem is it takes time for this to happen, increase your membership levels and activity as best you can, I'd also suggest using search engine friendly URLs if possible.
You can get one-way link from: free directory submissions, blogs, forum posting, networking site, article submissions...etc.. forum can get lots of backlinks if you have alot of members and post... which usually grab by other lurker/visitors and use to link or bookmark some important/informative topic... so I suggest that you promote it and invite more members...