A generalized multi-parameter mapping function aggregates decision criteria into a single virtual criterion to rank the potential relay candidates. Optimal rules for next hop relay as applicable to both transmitter-side selection and receiver-side election based forwarding schemes are also provided. Examples of network performance based on two optimization criteria include one-hop progress (greediness) and packet success rate (link quality). A suitable mapping function trades off the greediness for link quality. Simulation information is provided that indicates that the implementation according to the mapping function outperforms the reported transmitter-side link-aware forwarding schemes.