How to Create and Run a Small Business in The Sims 4: A Guide to Businesses and Hobbies

The The Sims 4: Businesses and Hobbies Expansion Pack gives players the opportunity to establish and manage a highly customizable small business. Whether you envision a cozy cat cafe, a chic candy shop, or a trendy tattoo parlor, the options are nearly limitless for your new venture.

Players have long awaited unique business choices and the ability to master the tattooing skill. This pack even introduced pottery, perfect if that's the type of enterprise you wish to pursue. Before you dive into profits, however, it's crucial to understand how to establish and effectively manage your small business in The Sims 4: Businesses and Hobbies.

How to Create a Small Business

The initial stage of launching your business idea is, of course, to create it, which can effortlessly be done after you design a new Sim and begin your game.

Step 1: Click on the cash register icon in Live Mode located at the bottom right corner of your screen. Depending on your available packs, several options may appear, but you should select the Small Business tab. Choose the Register Small Business option, costing 750 Simoleons.

Step 2: Now, you can customize your business details. Enter the name, description, and select an icon that best represents your venture.

Step 3: On the left side, you can select specific Business Activities. You'll choose from five options, or you can opt for a preset if you prefer not to select. Remember, these activities are for your customers, not employees; for instance, customers in a café should drink coffee instead of making drinks themselves.

Step 4: On the right, you can select whether your business should occupy a different lot or share the same lot as your residence. Yes, you can live right above your business now!

If you opt for this feature, ensure you designate areas within your home as Residential, Public, or Employee in Build Mode. This prevents customers from wandering into your personal space.

Step 5: Finally, you'll decide if you want to implement any entrance fees and what your price modifier will be. You can always adjust this later after your business is set up.

Choosing target customers is optional but can be beneficial if you want your business to attract a specific crowd, such as a particular age group or Sims with certain skills.

Step 6: Once your business is created, be sure to manage your employee tasks before opening. Hit the Manage Employee Tasks button in the Small Business menu to assign duties to each employee.

Step 7: You also have the ability to Manage Employees, allowing you to hire new workers and determine their wages. Keep in mind that your Sim can only hire those they know, so if you lack connections, it’s time for some socializing.

Step 8: After setting up your small business, you can unlock your doors (which costs 75 Simoleons) and watch the customers flood in. While it may not be strictly necessary, having a Kiosk handy is wise. It allows Sims to pay any entrance fees and serves as a point for altering prices or opening your shop.

How to Successfully Run a Small Business

Step 1: The first essential step for managing a thriving business in The Sims 4: Businesses and Hobbies is to unlock Small Business Perks. You’ll need Perk Points, which are obtainable through several activities:

• Selling products
• Employees completing their tasks
• Interacting with customers via Small Business interactions

While we’ll elaborate on these later, be sure to spend your Perk Points as you accrue them. With enough Business Renown, you can unlock various perks that enhance your operation, from implementing a tip jar to investing in SimoCoin, or even engaging in dubious activities like falsifying payments.

Step 2: Offering products and services is the most straightforward way to enhance your business's renown. If these items are linked to a skill, such as making candy or pottery, the higher your skill level, the more you can charge for your creations. Keep honing your skills as you progress.

Be mindful not to overcharge your customers to avoid feelings of being scammed. Conversely, avoid pricing everything too low. Offering occasional sales is a good strategy, and when you have high-quality products, consider increasing your price modifier.

Step 3: Ensure your employees are fulfilling their roles adequately. A balanced approach is to have each staff member manage specific tasks, such as cleaning or serving customers. Remember, fair wages are crucial; underpaying will lead to dissatisfaction, while overpaying can eat into your profits.

Step 4: While engaging with customers, you will have various options. If it’s a first-time visitor, welcome them warmly to your establishment.

After the introduction, you can provide them with small business advice or share a light rumor about your business. If a customer becomes unruly, don't hesitate to ask them to leave. Building relationships through conversation can significantly enhance your renown, so be proactive!

Step 5: Keeping your business reviews positive can be achieved through various subtle strategies. Ensure your retail displays are well-stocked to maintain a professional appearance. Additionally, invest in attractive decor and ambient music to create a pleasant atmosphere.

Providing a variety of activities for your customers will also make for a more enjoyable experience. Explore different game packs or mods — particularly on PC — that enhance the gameplay experience, allowing for unique business combinations like a cat café or a university commons!