I was recently asked for some tips and thoughts on getting a job working remotely in this economy.

My personal view on working remotely is that indeed companies are very narrow minded.  In 2000, when you couldn’t find anyone to hire, companies went to great lengths to bend over backwards.  Our last several executive searches wanted someone on site at least 4 days a week.  Especially true the smaller the company.  I would go on to say that especially when the candidate is in a locale that is perceived as ‘vacation’ or ‘glamorous’.  Keep in mind that our own firm is totally virtual and that I spend a several weeks at a time working out of our home in Tahoe each year.  Just like my office, it’s fully equipped with everything I need.

My advice to everyone this year is don’t ask for too much, take a role that you can do that is not a stretch, consider a title lower than what you had if you really want to land a job.  Unless you are a perfect fit and have exotic skills—then the world is your oyster.