Many in sales today didn't intend to make sales a career, but grew to love the job.

"We live for the chase, craving that euphoric validation from the close," wrote veteran salesman Jeff Schmitt in a recent BusinessWeek article. "Never take 'no' for an answer," has turned some of the best salespeople into rebels.

In this economy, however, keeping your sales force motivated and satisfied goes beyond offering a healthy commission. Bringing your rebels "inside" the organization is one way you can keep them productive and happy.

Here are several tips on how to turn your company's rebels into your best allies:

• Be transparent by listening to feedback from your sales staff. Remember that they they have the best relationships with your clients and in many ways are the face of your organization. Be honest with them about the company's direction.

• Share your reasoning when you make major decisions that impact them. Make sure your sales staff understand your vision for the company and your short-term and long-term goal.