You've likely heard it whispered about in the halls of HR, if you haven't experienced it first-hand already. But soon, experts say, the skills gap could come for everyone.

While unemployment hovers around the optimistic (but still flexible) 4.1%, employers in almost every industry are struggling to find the right people for open jobs. Some industries can't find enough workers with particular skills; others can't find enough people at all.

If you're wondering how we even got here, you aren't alone. The causes are both broad and complex, a combination of company inner workings, changing demographics and tragic epidemics.

Luckily, some of the smartest minds in business are trying to solve it. Changes in recruitment, employee development and wages may be able to bring struggling employers some semblance of success.

1. Inside the perfect storm of problems that created the skills gap

   From self-inflicted problems to external obstacles, employers are facing a range of issues that have all coincided to create a massive skills gap. Read More »

2. 7 actions employers can take to address the skills gap

   There simply aren't enough workers with the skills employers need — and that gap may only get worse. But proactive employers can take steps to future-proof their organizations. Read More »

3. In a tight labor market, more employers are rethinking recruiting 'red flags'

   Things that used to disqualify candidates, like shorter tenures and resume gaps, are getting a second look. Read More »

4. You can fix internal skills gaps — but you have to find them first

   When training shortcomings start affecting the bottom line, it's time to identify exactly where employees are missing the mark. Read More »

5. Half of employers plan to address the skills gap by improving the employee experience

   Beating the competition for talent in 2018 begins in the workplace, said Randstad Sourceright's CEO in announcing a new report. Read More »

6. What role can the government play in solving the skills gap?

   The talent problem in STEM, in particular, has forced government leaders, educators and company executives to come together to find solutions. Read More »