Door Lock Operation

I didn't get the door keys when I bought the car, the ignition key is different. I'm now at the point of finishing up the interior and have a new lock set on order. I noticed both lock rods are bent, most likely from people trying to lock or unlock the door when it's open. I would rather have a hidden key somewhere on the car than have to keep taking the passenger door panel off and straightening out the lock rod when people bend it while trying to lock it.