Performance First Digital Review: A Local Agency That Gets Digital Marketing Right

As a small business owner in New Orleans, I know how overwhelming digital marketing can be. Between SEO, social media, and paid ads, it’s easy to feel lost—especially when agencies promise the moon but deliver vague strategies. That’s why I was relieved to find Performance First Digital, a local team that cuts through the noise with practical, budget-friendly solutions.

With roots in digital marketing dating back to 1999, this agency has seen it all—algorithm shifts, platform changes, and the rise of AI—and they’ve adapted every step of the way. After working with them to revamp my company’s online presence, here’s what stood out.

1. Deep Industry Experience (Without the Ego)

Performance First Digital doesn’t just throw buzzwords around. Their team has been in the trenches since the early days of digital marketing, and it shows. They understand that what worked in 2010 won’t cut it today, but they also avoid chasing every fleeting trend. Instead, they focus on realistic, sustainable strategies—whether it’s improving local SEO for my brick-and-mortar shop or refining my Google Ads to reduce wasted spend.

One thing I appreciated? They didn’t push expensive, unnecessary services. Some agencies try to upsell you on every new tool, but Performance First took the time to understand my goals and budget first.

2. Custom Solutions, Not Cookie-Cutter Plans

Too many agencies use a one-size-fits-all approach, but Performance First tailors their strategies to each client. During our initial consultation, they asked detailed questions about my business, competitors, and pain points—not just "What’s your budget?"

For example, instead of recommending a generic social media package, they analyzed which platforms actually drove traffic for my niche and suggested focusing resources there. They also provided clear performance benchmarks, so I knew what to expect and when.

3. Transparency & Communication

Ever worked with an agency that disappears after onboarding? Not here. Performance First keeps clients in the loop with regular updates—no jargon, just straightforward insights. If a strategy wasn’t delivering, they explained why and adjusted quickly.

That said, if you’re looking for a hands-off experience, note that they do expect collaboration. They’ll ask for feedback, input on creatives, and occasional market insights from your end. But that’s part of what makes their approach effective—they treat your business like it’s theirs.

Pros & Cons at a Glance

Strengths

✔ Decades of expertise—they’ve weathered every digital marketing shift.
✔ No inflated promises—solutions are grounded in real data.
✔ Personalized strategies—no recycled playbooks.
✔ Local, responsive team—easy to meet face-to-face in NOLA.

Considerations

➔ Not the cheapest option (but you get what you pay for).
➔ Requires client involvement—they won’t just "take over" without your input.

Final Thoughts

Performance First Digital is a rare find—an agency that balances experience with adaptability. They won’t promise overnight success, but they will craft a practical, results-driven plan tailored to your business. If you’re in New Orleans (or beyond) and want a partner—not just a vendor—they’re worth a conversation.