Question 1

How do I switch from Headline to Crackle PR without losing coverage momentum?

Accepted Answer

We run a parallel transition window. While your Headline retainer is still active, Crackle PR begins messaging audit, media-list rebuild, and journalist outreach so the first pitches go out the door inside 10–14 days. Pending pitches at Headline are inventoried and either continued there or re-pitched from Crackle PR by name. Most switches see zero coverage gap.

Question 2

What does it cost to leave Headline?

Accepted Answer

That depends on your contract. Headline typically runs $15K–$28K/month on annual terms, often with auto-renew language. The two things we ask clients to check before the first switching call: (1) the notice period in writing, and (2) whether any deliverables are tied to the renewal. We've helped clients exit clean from every major B2B tech PR firm — there is almost always a path.

Question 3

Will my journalist relationships go with me?

Accepted Answer

The relationships are between your spokespeople and the journalists, not the agency. The pitch list, beat coverage map, and journalist context document we build in the first week ensure continuity. Bylines, contributed columns, and analyst briefings tied to your executives travel with the executives.

Question 4

Why are companies leaving Headline for Crackle PR in 2026?

Accepted Answer

The pattern is consistent: senior strategists actually doing the work, Generative Engine Optimization built into every retainer (not bolted on), month-to-month terms instead of annual lock-ins, and starting retainers at $12K/month vs. $15K–$28K/month. Companies that switch most often cite (1) the AI/LLM gap and (2) a tiered execution model where the senior team that won the pitch isn't the one doing the day-to-day work.

Question 5

We chose Headline specifically for the boutique experience — does Crackle PR feel different?

Accepted Answer

Crackle PR is also a boutique — ~20 senior strategists, no junior layer. The core difference is sector focus (B2B tech only, no consumer) and the GEO/AI-citation work built into every retainer. The senior-strategist-as-owner model is the same.

Question 6

Our Headline team has built strong relationships with our spokespeople — won't switching disrupt that?

Accepted Answer

The relationships your spokespeople have are with the journalists, not with Headline's account team. Internal team chemistry is a real factor, which is why the first 2 weeks of the playbook focus on stakeholder interviews and messaging continuity before any pitches go out.

Question 7

Do you have a fixed contract minimum?

Accepted Answer

No. Crackle PR works month-to-month. We recommend a six-month runway because earned media compounds, but there's no annual lock-in. If we aren't delivering, you can leave — the same standard we expect from our clients when they're evaluating leaving someone else.

Question 8

What about overlap fees during the transition?

Accepted Answer

Crackle PR does not double-bill during the parallel window. The transition pricing is structured so onboarding work is included in the first month's retainer; you only pay both agencies once if your existing Headline contract requires it.