Frequently Asked Questions

  • Pivot & Pen is a boutique communication strategy and public relations firm. While traditional PR often focuses on press placement and visibility alone, our work centers on clarity, narrative ownership, and strategic communication.

    We help clients communicate intentionally in high-stakes moments — across media, corporate spaces, public platforms, and internal leadership environments. Our work blends strategy, research, and real-world application.

  • We work with:

    • Leaders and executives

    • Creators, influencers, and public figures

    • Corporate teams and organizations

    • Athletes, artists, and high-profile individuals

    • Nonprofits and community-focused institutions

    Many of our clients are navigating growth, visibility, transition, or moments where communication directly impacts reputation and trust.

  • Yes! When appropriate. However, press and media outreach are not our starting point.

    We begin with communication strategy, messaging alignment, and narrative clarity to ensure that when visibility happens, it’s effective, intentional, and sustainable. Media placement is most powerful when the message is already solid.

  • Engagements vary. Some clients work with us for a single workshop or campaign, while others retain Pivot & Pen for several months or longer.

    During your consultation, we’ll recommend a timeline that supports your goals without unnecessary commitment.

  • Pivot & Pen partners with organizations as a communication strategist to improve clarity, reduce conflict, and strengthen leadership through structured workshops and consulting.

    Our work is tailored to the needs of each organization and may focus on workplace communication, leadership development, or organizational communication systems. We collaborate closely with internal teams to design solutions that are practical, impactful, and aligned with your goals.

    We typically partner with:

    • Learning & Development Leaders

    • HR Directors

    • DEI & Culture Leaders

    • University Student Affairs Teams

    • Employee Resource Group (ERG) Leaders

    Each engagement is customized to support your team in navigating communication challenges, strengthening internal dialogue, and leading with greater confidence and intention.

  • Absolutely. While Pivot & Pen is proudly rooted in Detroit, we work with clients nationwide.

    Most services are delivered virtually, and we regularly support clients in cities including New York, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Houston, Miami, and beyond. In-person services and workshops are available by request.

  • Yes — and often intentionally.

    Pivot & Pen frequently works alongside PR teams, talent managers, legal counsel, and internal communications departments. We do not replace existing teams; we provide strategic communication support that strengthens and complements their efforts.

  • Item desOur services include:

    • Strategic communication advisory

    • Media and narrative strategy

    • Crisis prevention and response framing

    • Media training and interview preparation

    • Corporate workshops and communication training

    • Thought leadership and messaging development

    • Identity-centered storytelling and narrative support

    Each engagement is customized based on client needs.cription

  • Some services require a retainer, especially ongoing advisory or long-term strategy work. Retainers allow for consistent access, deeper alignment, and proactive support.

    One-time projects and workshops may be offered without a retainer depending on scope.

  • Yes. Crisis communication is approached proactively whenever possible.

    We support clients with:

    • Crisis prevention and message preparation

    • Response strategy and narrative framing

    • Internal and external communication alignment

    • Post-crisis reputation rebuilding

    We do not sensationalize crises — we focus on protecting clarity, credibility, and long-term trust.

  • The first step is booking a consultation.

    During this conversation, we’ll discuss your goals, challenges, and determine whether Pivot & Pen is the right fit for your needs. From there, a custom proposal is created.

  • No — and that’s intentional.

    We work best with clients who value clarity, intention, and strategic communication over quick fixes or surface-level visibility. Our goal is long-term alignment, not short-term hype.

  • No firm can ethically guarantee media placement or specific public outcomes.

    What we do guarantee is thoughtful strategy, intentional communication, and professional execution grounded in research, experience, and best practices.

  • Collaborative, honest, and straightforward. We're here to guide the process, bring ideas to the table, and keep things moving.

  • Pivot & Pen operates on a custom engagement model.

    Fees vary based on scope, duration, and the level of strategic support required. We offer:

    • Project-based engagements

    • Monthly retainers

    • Workshop and training fees

    Pricing is discussed during the consultation process to ensure alignment and transparency — without one-size-fits-all packages.

  • Book a consultation to explore how Pivot & Pen can support your communication goals.