To get a proper glue joint you should cover both surfaces completely then fit them together. Quick jobs can be done with only one surface covered but for risers and other structural work you really need 100%. Clamping too tightly, or not tightly enough, can starve the joint of glue if it squeezes out.
If you've done what they say above, and if you covered both surfaces, then I'd say move up to an epoxy or Weldwood but my guess is you're taper, like Eric said.