How do I deal with incompetent co-workers?

I am being offered a promotion, but it is at a satellite office. I have no problem relocating, but I am concerned about being away from regular interaction with management. Should I be concerned about being "out of sight, out of mind"?

Some managers actually enjoy not being at the "mothership" because they feel they have more autonomy to do their thing, while others crave being at the center of the action. It really depends on the culture of your company. Taking on assignments in different locations is actually a requirement for getting ahead at some employers — and career limiting if you don't move around. For others, it's an opportunity that some may want to take advantage of — but not necessary for career advancement. If you are concerned about being forgotten, you should raise that concern with your boss and discuss ways in which you will be able to stay connected, including visits back to headquarters. You might even be able to negotiate a time frame in which the company will agree to bring you back home.

What do you do if your success in your job is dependent on the cooperation and ability of colleagues from other departments — and they aren't cooperative or very good?

Is this supposed to be a riddle, rhetorical question or what? This describes and applies to virtually everyone in every kind of job. Most of us in the corporate world need to collaborate with others. And if your success is dependent on the work of others, then it starts with an honest, direct conversation with your colleagues about what you need from them — what's working and what isn't, and ways to work more effectively. If that doesn't work, your only other recourse is to notify your boss about what is dependent on others, what they aren't delivering and how you tried to remedy the situation without success. This isn't grammar school — you aren't tattling on anyone. It's not personal, it's business (almost everything harkens back to "The Godfather") — so you do your best to work together and help your co-workers. Failing that, you have no choice but to involve your manager.