Change is the only constant in Washington, DC, and with the 115th Congress sworn in and ramping up its activities, that change includes 59 new members on Capitol Hill. With a jam-packed congressional calendar, associations need to prioritize their outreach to these new senators and representatives, educating them on their policy priorities.

Building relationships with these newcomers and their staff, however, requires a unique approach, compared to engaging their more seasoned colleagues. Here are eight tips to help government relations professionals put their best foot forward with this year's freshman class.

1. Do your research. While new members of Congress lack voting records, there's a good chance they might have state- or local-level voting histories, biographical data, or campaign statements to provide an in-depth profile. Associations should leverage this information to position their key issues in a way that resonates with each newly elected official.

2. Start early. It's never too early to begin reaching out to new members—in fact, some organizations start well before the election. This year, Congress is tackling critical issues early, and associations need to introduce themselves in-person as soon as possible to ensure that their voices are heard during these policy debates.

Associations should regularly reach out to new offices to share developments, offer assistance, and provide input on emerging issues and legislation to ensure they are viewed as a helpful resource.

3. Don't overwhelm. While new congressional offices are getting up to speed on legislative and committee work, they are also staffing up, setting up constituent-response systems, and dealing with office matters, such as budgeting and technology. It is important not to inundate them with information early on.

"Going into an initial meeting with a huge packet of information can be overwhelming for new staffers … and it all might end up in the trash," says former congressional staffer Rob Goldsmith. "Associations should limit the materials that they give to new offices. I would recommend a one-pager, then offer to email follow-up information if they are interested."

Associations should focus on key facts and local impact during these introductory meetings and save the in-depth policy discussions for later.

4. Offer to help. While keeping early meetings at a high level, GR professionals should always offer their assistance to new members and staff. Whether facilitating connections back home or serving as a policy resource, any support an association can provide early will help cement relationships and keep the organization top of mind when relevant issues emerge.

5. Leverage fundraisers. For associations with political action committees (PACs), congressional fundraisers can help establish relationships with new lawmakers, who are always looking to meet potential future campaign supporters. Fundraisers can facilitate introductions and provide unique information and insights on candidates and the people they represent.

6. Don't forget events. Whether on Main Street or Capitol Hill, events are a great opportunity for associations to engage new members of Congress. In-state and in-district events, like industry plant tours, can highlight the work of local members or chapters, drive home the impact of federal issues on constituents, and solidify elected officials' relationships with associations away from the frantic pace of Washington, DC.

Inside the Beltway, hosting industry "meet-and-greet" events can support relationship building. "Offer to hold getting-to-know-you events for new members who want to learn about your industry," says John Boling, vice president of government affairs for the Institute of Makers of Explosives. "Invite five to 10 of your sector colleagues, including those without a PAC, to join the lawmaker for a breakfast or afternoon coffee, where attendees can share their policy priorities. We always have good discussions, and the member is appreciative of the association for setting it up."

7. Nurture relationships. Initial outreach is important, but creating an ongoing dialogue with freshmen is the best way to guarantee that they understand how their decisions can affect the association and its members. Associations should regularly reach out to new offices to share developments, offer assistance, and provide input on emerging issues and legislation to ensure that they are viewed as a helpful resource.

8. Say thank you. While constituents and other stakeholders inundate new members of Congress with their requests and concerns, far fewer take the time to express gratitude. Associations should thank new members and their staff for supporting their priorities—whether it's cosponsoring legislation, joining a caucus, or voting favorably on the floor. A little gratitude will help an organization stick out from the crowd.

With these eight tips in mind, association GR and advocacy professionals can hit the ground running and build meaningful relationships with freshmen in the 115th Congress.