Although unemployment remains high and there's a perception of a talent surplus, human resources professionals might have to choose from limited quantities of high-skilled workers as the widening skills gap makes it difficult for U.S. employers to compete globally, according to a new Deloitte study. 

The study finds talent is ranked as the most significant challenge to employers over the next three years. In fact, a quarter of respondents say they're worried about talent, which is an increase from 16 percent last year. Insurance and professional service firms rank talent shortage as the highest concern among respondents' industries.

"The survey exposes a widening gap between the dwindling supply of skilled workers in America and the growing demands of the modern workplace," says David Lusk, principal, Deloitte Consulting and author of the report. "A key challenge ahead for employers will be working to help close this skills gap to maintain a competitive edge in the global marketplace."