Continue spamming and bs maybe, some folks have been trying for months before they could secure any job in sg, especially when you don't have any local experience yet. So persistence is the key here

There won't be a fix number of interview sessions to secure a job in SG. I'd been through 2-3 interview sessions per application, but recently just gotten an offer with just 1 interview
P/s: I've been following this thread for quite sometimes without posting anything. This would be my first post here 

Make sure your landlord seems like a reasonable person and not those who give all sorts of conditions like "you can only use washing machine once a month and that also only to wash 2 t shirts." Best is to find landlady who will cook for you, give food in return for 'services,' you can PM jitshiong to ask his experience in this.

Stay as near as possible ? Even though if the rent are slightly higher, as commuting to work could easily like 1 hrs+ one way and if require multiply transit the cost do add up. So is better to pay a little extra a get more sleeping time 

Do some research on the direct neighbourhood too

I didn't when renting my place, started hearing a lot of crazy loud screams in the day time
Turns out the "condo" directly opposite my room is a home for intellectually disabled patients 

Landlord/landlady:

Preferably one that is amicable and reasonable. Then again, it is not easy to detect 'peculiarities' arising from prospective landlord or landlady on a meeting or two. You will just have to be vigilant and look out for telling signs of any unsavoury traits as early as possible.

Location:

Would you like a place that is accessible? Granted, it is quite convenient to move around Singapore wherever one lives but  public transportation provision in the prime areas (Bishan, Ang Mo Kio, Toa Payoh to name a few) are fantastic! Of course, do not rule out places like Bedok or Clementi for example. They are great locations too. It must be borne in mind that the nearer one's accommodation is to an MRT station, the higher the rent.

Amenities:

Best if you can find one that ia surrounded by eateries, shops and etc. I dare say most HDB flat neighborhoods will have some sort of a hub that contains the essential shops. In fact, many MRT stations have a shopping mall attached to it.