On the "Skills Shortage"

Companies: You cannot complain of a "Skills Shortage" if you expect the moon and sky for "skills requirements" (esp. if you refuse to accept anything but a full match), are hiring for one person to fill the workload of three people, and pay below-market value.

There wouldn't be a skills shortage if you were willing to A) pay a decent wage for what you're asking for (if you must have a perfect fit), B) plan to hire someone "close enough" (especially with cross-compatible skills) , and/or C) provide training.

(Hint: if any of the people related to the hiring process mention recession or unemployment as reasons that people should be willing to accept lower pay, right there is where you're hurting yourself, and are part of the problem.  If you do hire someone, they will leave you as soon as a reasonable offer comes.)