We work in a very small office space. In the middle is a cupboard filled with various odds and ends. Noise from this part of the office tends to travel throughout the rest of the office.

A colleague periodically makes a huge ruckus in the cupboard – doors are slammed, items are dropped, tools are used and there are sometimes shouts of exasperation. At first, I thought this was someone having a rough day at the office. But it constantly happens and it’s clearly attention seeking.

I have had a quiet word to this person, asking whether I can help. I have mentioned that I’m asking because the noise is obvious. They insist I can’t help but they don’t take the hint that this constant racket is distracting and needs to stop. What else could I try?

The solution might not be simple or obvious, and if a reprimand is required, there may be unpleasant conversations.Credit: John Shakespeare

Surely when someone is frequently causing a disturbance at work, a leader’s job is to intervene –........

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